Lidl Calls on Cork Food Producers to Apply for 2026 Kickstart Programme Following Local Success Stories

Lidl Ireland has launched its 2026 Kickstart Supplier Development Programme, urging Cork's food and drink producers to apply before the 31 January deadline following the success of local participants including Second Street Bakeshop, Greenfield Yogurts and The Good Dairy Company.

The programme, now in its tenth year and backed by Bord Bia, offers small and medium-sized artisan producers the opportunity to scale their businesses and see their products stocked in all 234 Lidl stores across the island of Ireland.

Last year's intake saw more than 46 artisan products from 25 Irish producers reach Lidl's shelves, demonstrating the programme's continued success in supporting local suppliers.

The six-month development programme provides successful applicants with dedicated support from Lidl's in-house experts, focusing on production efficiency, product development, packaging, social media guidance, administration support and scaling strategies. The programme culminates in a promotional listing across all Lidl stores.

Kevin Duffy, Chief Commercial Officer at Lidl Ireland & Northern Ireland, said:

"Lidl's Kickstart Supplier Development programme champions local Irish producers. It's not just about getting products on our shelves; it enables these businesses to grow significantly, offering our customers a fantastic, vibrant selection of innovative new Irish products.

We are incredibly proud of the programme's long-term success. Over the past ten years, we've seen phenomenal achievements from participants like Fused by Fiona, securing full, permanent listings and becoming everyday fixtures in our stores. What's more, we've leveraged our massive international store network to help products go global, opening up exciting new markets across the UK, Europe, and the USA.

As we look to build on this decade of success, we really want to encourage any aspiring food and drink entrepreneurs who are interested in scaling their business to connect with us."

Adam Baker, Global Retail Specialist at Bord Bia, said:

"Lidl's Kickstart Supplier Development Programme is an invaluable opportunity for any emerging Irish food or drink business. Now in its tenth year, this hugely successful supplier development programme has really gone from strength to strength! It's a superb chance for small businesses to get their products in front of a major retailer, with multiple opportunities to upscale your business and potentially sell your product in over 234 stores across the island of Ireland.

This programme can help Irish brands prepare for international growth and export potential, aligning with Bord Bia's mission to champion Irish food, drink, and horticulture on the global stage."

Cork food and drink producers interested in applying can visit www.lidl.ie/kickstart before the 31 January 2026 deadline.