Lidl’s €100m Irish beef deal brings Cavan produce to 26 European countries

Lidl Ireland has announced that its Cavan-produced Irish grass-fed beef, produced in partnership with Liffey Meats, is set to be part of a major international promotion.

Starting in March, a new €7.5 million supply deal will see the opportunity for Irish beef to be exported to Lidl stores in up to 26 European markets throughout the year, building on an existing footprint of 17 countries, through Lidl’s international supply network.

The latest agreement brings Lidl Ireland’s total contract value with its primary Irish beef suppliers to a combined €100 million, with the total annual Irish beef export value rising to €35 million.

They said it reflects Lidl's ongoing commitment to sourcing high-quality produce from local producers and facilitating their growth in international markets.

It will showcase a premium selection of cuts—including the Deluxe Angus Fillet Steak 32 Days, Deluxe Angus Rib Eye Steak 32 Days, Deluxe Angus Sirloin Steak 32 Days and the Deluxe Angus Striploin Steak 32 Days—which will be rolled out across Lidl’s network of stores in Europe throughout the year, including stores in Germany, France, Italy, The Netherlands and Finland

As Lidl Ireland’s largest Irish beef supplier, Cavan-based Liffey Meats has grown into a cornerstone of the retailer's supply chain over a partnership spanning more than 20 years.

Central to this partnership is the Lidl Sustainable Beef Programme, a joint initiative with Liffey Meats. This industry-leading programme supports more than 20 Irish beef farmers in implementing innovative sustainable farming practices.

Kevin Duffy, chief commercial officer at Lidl Ireland & Northern Ireland, said: “At Lidl Ireland, we are immensely proud of our crucial role as a gateway for Irish suppliers to reach international markets. Irish beef is a global gold standard, and through this major promotion, we are bringing a wide range of premium cuts to Lidl customers in 26 countries across Europe.

"Reaching an export value of €35 million is a landmark moment that reflects the incredible quality produced by our valued partners, including our longstanding partner of over 20 years, Liffey Meats.

"This initiative is about more than just a single product; it is a showcase of the consistency and excellence of the entire Irish beef industry. By utilising our extensive international network, we are ensuring that the provenance of Irish beef is recognised on a global stage, providing a significant boost to our local suppliers and the wider rural economy."