Cork producers launch artisan products on shelves next month

Porridge oats and popcorn from Cork are among the latest Irish-made artisanal products to hit the shelves of one supermarket retailer next month.

The very best produce has been handpicked by Lidl Ireland to feature in the retailer’s Kickstart Supplier Development Programme, with 45 new products from more than 25 local producers hit the shelves of Lidl stores from Thursday 11 September.

Among those to be stocked are Billy and Bernard Cotter, producers from Castletownroche in North Cork, who were inspired by the health benefits of oats as a wholesome grain and diversified into Cotter Farm’s Gluten Free Porridge.

Also flying the flag for Cork is Second Street Bakeshop from Carrigaline, selling American-style toffee popcorn with an Irish twist.

From convenience meals like Big Pot Co’s Beef Stew and McAtamney's Gourmet Kitchen BBQ Pulled Pork, to nutritionally conscious options such as Sarah Living’s Bliss Balls and Steeper Culture’s Sparkling Tea and Kombucha, and wellness favourites like Sleepsound’s Pillow Spray and Serenity Balm this year’s Kickstart range is bursting with variety.

Now in its ninth year, Lidl Ireland’s Kickstart programme is supported by Bord Bia and aims to support small and medium-sized local producers to grow their brand, build their supply and reach new customer audiences.

Working with the discount retailer, who last year in a record investment procured more than €1.67 billion worth of goods and services from a growing network of almost 1,800 Irish producers and businesses, the programme supports small producers to upscale and experience what it’s like to supply a major supermarket whilst also availing of new export opportunities for the first time.

Kickstart suppliers also benefit from a free six-month development programme delivered by industry experts which covers key disciplines such as quality control, supply chain management, branding and distribution.

Ahead of the new range of Kickstart products reaching Lidl’s 229 stores across the island of Ireland this September, all suppliers on the programme have benefited from guidance by Lidl’s commercial and marketing teams on scaling production, improving efficiency and optimising packaging, ensuring that products are retail ready.

The Kickstart Class of 2025 reflects the growing diversity and ever-evolving innovation that is at the heart of Ireland’s thriving food production industry, and includes:

Juspy a delicious Cacao & Collagen superfood powder blend designed to boost energy naturally, nourish the body and aid recovery.

Kate O’Driscoll, Lidl’s Supplier Development Manager at Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland said: “This is the culmination of six months of hard work, collaborating with our in-house experts. Since its launch, we’ve invested more than €37 million, supporting more than 300 local producers and over 700 products.

All 45 new products will be available to try in Lidl stores from 11 September, while stocks last.