SuperValu is calling on the next generation of Irish food and drink producers to apply for Food Academy 2025, with applications opening on 10 March.
The programme is designed to nurture and scale innovative small to medium food and drink businesses, and aspiring entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to take their products from concept to consumer, gaining expert mentorship, retail insight and exposure.
Supported by SuperValu and the Local Enterprise Office, Food Academy provides a launchpad for start-up to mid-stage food and drink producers.
With consumers interest in homegrown, innovative products at an all-time high, now is the perfect time for producers to take the leap and apply.
Growth
This year, Food Academy has launched an exciting new partnership with Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin).
Through this, Food Academy participants will attend a two-day training programme at TU Dublin, complementing the ongoing training provided by Food Academy.
Food Academy has surpassed €260 million in retail sales over the past 11 years, highlighting the programme’s significant impact.
In 2025, Food Academy products are projected to generate €30 million in retail sales, reflecting strong consumer demand for local and sustainable Irish food.
By supporting the programme, SuperValu is helping to drive economic growth and innovation in Ireland’s food and drink sector.
At the same time, changing consumer habits are shaping new opportunities for food producers.
Trends
The latest trends emphasise an increasing demand for non-ultra processed foods (UPFs), natural and organic products, fermented foods and gut health products, as well as vegetarian, plant-based and high-protein offerings.
These trends are exemplified by Food Academy producers, including All Real, who specialise in handmade protein bars with 100% natural ingredients; and Thanks Plants, who produce meat alternatives from whole food ingredients.
This wave of innovation reflects the rapid speed of new product development across the Irish food sector.
‘Invaluable Experience’
Speaking about the recruitment drive, Food Academy manager Carmel Biggane said, “The Food Academy is a fantastic collaboration between SuperValu and the Local Enterprise Office, growing stronger year after year since its inception 12 years ago.
“This programme provides producers with invaluable experience, and the opportunity to get their products on SuperValu shelves, 52 weeks of the year, and helping them build their brand.
“Supporting local and Irish producers is at the heart of what we do at SuperValu, and our involvement in Food Academy underscores our commitment to fostering homegrown talent in the food industry.
“As consumer tastes continue to evolve, the Food Academy is paving the way for innovative food and drink producers to bring great-tasting products to the Irish market.
“We encourage all start-ups and mid-stage producers to apply today.”
Aisling Cullen, the founder of Thanks Plants, added, “Food Academy has been instrumental in shaping our business, providing us with invaluable support and opportunities for growth.
“Thanks to the programme, our plant-based products are now expanding nationwide with SuperValu, allowing us to reach more customers than ever before.
“Food Academy not only helped us scale but also adapt to evolving customer needs, ensuring we can continue to innovate and deliver products that resonate with today’s market.
“The support from Food Academy has been invaluable, and we are excited for what the future holds.”
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