Tesco Ireland and Bord Bia have unveiled a new annual supplier development initiative, Taste Bud, with 20 companies signed up for its 2015 programme to secure, grow and maintain listings in Tesco stores.
To date, 50 Irish companies have completed the development programme, seeing more than €30 million worth of sales to Tesco stores, with nearly a quarter of this revenue coming from listings in the UK. Some of the brands that have taken part in the programme include Ballymaloe Country Relish, Keoghs Crisps and Glenilen.
Speaking at the launch of the 2015 Taste Bud programme, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney commented, “As a valued supporter of the Irish food and drink sector, it is encouraging to see the on-going success of Tesco’s supplier development programme with Bord Bia, which gives Irish companies the opportunity to innovate, grow and compete internationally, ensuring that more Irish products reach shelves both in the domestic and overseas markets.”
Chief executive of Bord Bia, Aidan Cotter praised Taste Bud as a comprehensive and practical programme that helps small food businesses develop and expand their business, adding, “Bord Bia has supported the programme for four years and we are heartened to hear the many, many success stories from Irish companies who have taken part and gone on to grow both locally and internationally.”
Taste Bud will run over seven months, incorporating local, national and export levels to support companies at various stages of their development. Participants will receive mentoring alongside workshops with Tesco buyers and technical experts, as well as access to relevant consumer insights.
© 2015 - Checkout Magazine by Jenny Whelan.
