Cork based suppliers O'Flynn Foods named as Grow with ALDI finalists

THE 2024 Grow with ALDI finalists have been announced following a nationwide search for Ireland’s most talented and innovative suppliers in the food and drink industry.

Twenty-seven ambitious suppliers from across both the Republic and Northern Ireland have earned their spot to showcase their products in 161 ALDI stores nationwide.

Among this year’s 27 finalists is local Cork business, O’Flynn Foods located on Winthrop Street.

They will see their products go on sale in ALDI stores nationwide for a two-week period starting May 23.

Located in the heart of Cork, O’Flynn Foods, founded by Declan O’Flynn, epitomises the blend of heritage and innovation in artisan sausage making.

This family-operated enterprise boasts four generations of expertise, offering products that combine local tradition with contemporary flavours. Their Protein Sausages and Traditional BBQ Sausages, both priced at €4.99, exemplify their commitment to quality.

Speaking about being selected as a finalist for this year’s Grow with ALDI competition, Declan O’Flynn of O’Flynn Foods Ltd, said: “We are thrilled to have the chance to share our craft with ALDI customers across Ireland.

“The Grow with ALDI programme has been an outstanding experience to date, and we look forward to exciting times ahead.”

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 more than €10m, propelling Irish-made products to new heights.

This year’s Grow with ALDI finalists are from 18 counties and showcase a bold array of innovative products.

The lineup includes everything from BBQ meats and plant-based mayo to quality sweet and salty snacks and sophisticated 0.0% alcohol options, offering a treasure trove of discoveries.

Chosen for their dedication, the quality of their offerings, and their entrepreneurial spirit, these pioneers exemplify the vibrant creativity and fearless innovation flourishing across Ireland today, embodying the finest of Irish ingenuity.

Following the initial promotion, a handful of winners will be chosen to avail of further opportunities with ALDI earning them a Specialbuy contract with the retailer and enabling them to further scale their business and allowing ALDI to expand their ever-growing range of local Irish producers.

Speaking about the finalists of Grow with ALDI 2024 programme, Rachael O’Connor, ALDI buying director, said: “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.

“ALDI takes great pride in supporting and promoting small Irish businesses and on May 23 27 new Irish produced products will hit shelves as part of the initiative.

“Customer enthusiasm is crucial for the success of these products in the Grow with ALDI program, so don’t miss your chance to explore and purchase your favourites in stores nationwide.”