Rob Horgan, Rachael O'Connor, Cassie Stokes and Fiona Twomey at the GROW launch.
ALDI is calling on aspiring Irish producers, suppliers, or entrepreneurs from across Co. Mayo to take part in this year’s programme, designed to propel local businesses and connect with Irish shoppers.
Grow with ALDI is a product accelerator and supplier development programme which selects the best of Irish producers and gives them the chance to have their products stocked at 163 ALDI stores nationwide.
It’s the chance of a lifetime and perfect opportunity to take your business to the next level with dedicated support from ALDI experts. Successful applicants will join the ranks of past Grow with ALDI success stories such as Velo Coffee, FemFuelz, Cookie Dó, and Walls Honest Chips.
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Sharing his insights into the programme, Rob Horgan, Owner of Velo Coffee and President of Cork Chamber commented: "Grow with ALDI was a game-changer for Velo Coffee. It helped us reach a nationwide audience and connect with Irish customers like never before.
The programme puts local products on shelves which drives brand recognition and ALDI’s mentorship gives businesses the support, and tools, to grow sustainably. To anyone considering applying, my advice is to go for it!"
Now in its eighth year, Grow with ALDI continues to drive growth and opportunity for Irish SMEs, in partnership with Bord Bia. All entries are carefully evaluated by an expert panel of ALDI buyers.
Finalist products will debut in 163 ALDI stores nationwide later this year, with winners announced in winter 2025. Winners benefit from invaluable mentorship, gaining insights into supply chain management, marketing strategies, and the buying process, with the potential to secure additional contracts with ALDI Ireland reaching new heights for your business.
Speaking at the launch, Rachael O’Connor, Buying Director at ALDI Ireland, said: “ALDI is passionate about supporting Irish businesses and championing the best of Irish produce. Today, we stock over 2,400 everyday products and work with over 330 Irish suppliers.
"Over the last seven years Grow with ALDI has become one of our flagship supplier initiatives and we have invested €10 million in the programme to date, ensuring that Irish products take pride of place on our shelves. The sky is the limit for entrants so there really is no better time to apply.”
This year, ALDI welcomes back Cassie Stokes, ALDI Brand Ambassador to launch the programme. Speaking about her role, she added: "I’m thrilled to be part of Grow with ALDI for the second year running. Ireland is full of incredibly talented producers, and I love using my social media platform to share their stories."
Fiona Twomey, Global Retail Specialist at Bord Bia, joined ALDI representatives to launch the programme for 2025: "We’ve worked with ALDI on this programme since its inception and are delighted to be a part of an initiative that champions ambitious and innovative Irish producers.
"The programme offers excellent visibility and support to producers, giving them the opportunity to secure a national listing with ALDI."
Grow with ALDI applications for 2025 are now open. Entries will be accepted until January 31.
For more information on the Grow with ALDI programme, visit www.growwithaldi.ie.
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