Lidl Ireland has announced that it has offered contracts to five local artisan cheese suppliers.
A selection of 11 handmade cheeses from Irish Farmhouse cheesemakers, such as Cooleeney Farm in Tipperary, Wicklow Farmhouse Cheese in Wicklow, Knockanore Farmhouse Cheese in Waterford, Bluebell Falls and Carrigaline in Cork will be available across its Irish store network from 11 June.
'With primary markets such as restaurants and hotels closed throughout Ireland due to COVID-19, local cheese suppliers have been feeling the impact,' the discounter said.
"It’s been an incredibly challenging time for small businesses and suppliers across the country," noted Breda Maher of Cooleeney Farmhouse Cheese.
Support Local Suppliers
The debut cheese promotion was designed in a matter of weeks by Lidl Ireland’s expert buyers and planners in support of local cheesemakers, the retailer added.
"Through our work with Bord Bia we became aware that many artisan cheese suppliers were impacted hugely as a result of the closure of restaurants and farmers markets," said Kevin Haverty, Buying Director, Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland.
"At Lidl, we were keen to show our support for local suppliers impacted, and quickly mobilised to plan a dedicated promotion that showcased some fantastic new producers on Lidl shelves nationwide."
The new cheese selection includes Wicklow Gold Nettle & Chive Cheddar, Gortnamona Handmade Irish Goat's Cheese, Bluebell Falls Goats Cheese, and Carrigaline Natural Farmhouse, each cheese will be priced at €2.99.
© 2020 Checkout – your source for the latest Irish retail news. Article by Donna Ahern. Click sign-up to subscribe to Checkout.
