Lidl Ireland has announced the selection of 27 new suppliers from across the island of Ireland for the 2025 Kickstart Supplier Development Programme.

The unveiling is part of the chain's ninth Kickstart Supplier Development Programme, which sees small independent suppliers being given shelf space.

This year’s line-up features a wide range of locally sourced products like Mary Ellen’s Meadow Soft Drinks, Juspy Collagen + Protein, Sarah’s Living Bliss Balls, Super Nature Natural Treats and Second Street Bakeshop’s Gourmet Toffee Popcorn, along with wellness and beauty products like Sleep Sound’s Pillow Spray.

These products will be available in 229 Lidl stores across the island of Ireland from September 11 for a two-week period.

Since 2017, Lidl has invested more than €37 million in the programme, helping more than 300 small and medium-sized food and drink producers to grow their businesses. More than 700 products from Kickstart alumni have been stocked by Lidl.

Lidl’s latest Supplier and Business Partner Impact Report shows that the retailer procured more than €1.67 billion worth of goods and services from its growing supplier network in 2024.

Of the €1.2bn procured from Irish agri-food producers, €885m worth of goods stayed within Lidl Ireland’s operations to be sold through its local store network.

While more than €360m was exported internationally through Lidl’s expansive network of stores, creating valuable export opportunities for its valued Irish suppliers.

Lidl said this year’s Kickstart programme received hundreds of submissions from every county across the island of Ireland.

Among those selected are farmers turned producers Billy and Bernard Cotter, from Castletownroche in North Cork, who were inspired by the health benefits of oats as a wholesome grain and diversified into Cotter Farm’s Gluten Free Porridge.

Also flying the flag for Ireland’s food heartland are two products from County Meath, The Smokin’ Butcher’s Smoked Black Pudding, a traditional black pudding made in natural casing and A Bit on the Side, a range of jellies.

Alongside the in-store presence, Kickstart suppliers will benefit from a comprehensive six-month development programme.

This includes guidance from Lidl’s commercial and marketing teams on scaling production, improving efficiency and optimising packaging, ensuring that products are retail ready.

Kate O’Driscoll, supplier development manager at Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland, said: “The Irish food producers’ scene has never been more vibrant. 

"At Lidl, we are proud that our Kickstart Development Programme supports these emerging producers to flourish, growing their product, brand, and business with our guidance.

"Since its launch, we’ve invested more than €37m, supporting more than 300 local producers and over 700 products, many of which I’m thrilled to say are now part of Lidl’s regular everyday range, and we are excited to welcome these 30 new suppliers on board.”

Following a successful stint in last year’s programme, Dublin-based Slice of Life Pizza has now secured a contract worth more than €150,000 for a permanent listing with Lidl Ireland.

Other standout products from previous years include Fused by Fiona Uyema stir fry sauces, Applewood Farm’s apple cider vinegar, and Naked Bakes cookie dough.

O’Driscoll added: “Slice of Life is a perfect example of what Kickstart is all about. Since securing a place on the programme last year, they’ve now secured a permanent listing with Lidl Ireland worth more than €150,000, supplying their frozen pizzas to Lidl stores nationwide.

"Founded by Emi Takakura, Slice of Life Pizza is a frozen pizza brand produced in Ireland.

"They create indulgent pizzas that are high in protein and ideal for the health-conscious customer, offering three of your five a day.

"All packaging is made in Ireland and is 100 per cent recyclable, as the company is aiming for net zero by 2030.”

(Pic: John Keeble/Getty Images)