27 food start-ups selected to Grow with ALDI

New line-up of 47 Irish-produced products to hit ALDI shelves from 23 May.

Following a nationwide search for Ireland’s most talented and innovative suppliers in the food and drink industry, 27 ambitious suppliers from across both the Republic and Northern Ireland have earned their spot to showcase their products in 161 ALDI stores nationwide.

For a limited period, Irish shoppers will have the chance to shop, discover and enjoy the best of Irish artisanal products in their local ALDI store.

From succulent BBQ meats, versatile plant-based mayo to quality sweet and salty snacks as well as sophisticated 0.0% alcohol-free options, these 47 innovative Irish products showcase the diverse food and drink industry of Ireland.

This year’s cohort represents 18 counties from across the island of Ireland- showcasing their undeniable passion, exceptional product quality, and remarkable entrepreneurial drive.

Food for thought

“We are proud to say we have found 27 of the most ambitious and creative entrepreneurs in the foodie space,” said social media influencer and ALDI 2024 Ambassador Cassie Stokes.

“We are so lucky to live on an Island that is so rich in food and drink culture, and I can’t wait for the nation to celebrate the Grow with ALDI finalists with us!”

ALDI will award contracts to a select few finalists following this trial sales period, and these successful finalists will continue to be stocked as Specialbuys throughout the year. ALDI are calling on shoppers to cast their vote during their weekly shop by picking up their favourite Grow with ALDI finalist products from 23rd May to early June while stocks last.

“The passion and creativity of this year’s applicants is a testament to the calibre of talent working and innovating in the Irish food and drink space today,” said ALDI buying director Rachael O’Connor.

“ALDI takes great pride in supporting and promoting small Irish businesses and on 23 May 27 new Irish produced products will hit shelves as part of the initiative. These producers are on the pulse of consumers demands and leaning into growing trends such as alcohol-free alternatives and sustainable and circular food production. We look forward to welcoming them into stores nationwide!”

Delivered in partnership with Bord Bia, Grow with ALDI is now in its seventh year and is a leading developmental platform for Irish suppliers.

The programme provides invaluable industry mentorship and retail guidance, aimed at fostering the growth and sustainability of small to medium-sized Irish businesses. Since its inception in 2018, ALDI’s initiative has invested over €10m in Irish food firms.

“The programme continues to champion Irish suppliers, helping them on their journey to success in the competitive Irish retail and food sector,” said Fiona Twomey, global retail specialist at Bord Bia.

“The standard of products on offer among the finalists is as ever, extremely high and I wish each of them the very best of luck in their trial period across ALDI stores.”

The Grow with ALDI 2024 finalists

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