Accredited food & drink producer programme equips producers with retail expertise, industry insights, and market opportunities.
25 New food and drink producers are now launching their products in SuperValu stores across Ireland, following their completion of the Food Academy programme. This marks an exciting new chapter for these businesses as they bring fresh, locally made, and innovative products to shelves across the country.
More than a retail milestone, this launch highlights the growing impact of the Food Academy in shaping Ireland’s food innovation landscape. By supporting new and growing producers, the programme not only cultivates entrepreneurship but also strengthens Ireland’s vibrant food culture and ecosystem. It ensures that consumers have access to a diverse range of local, high-quality products 52 weeks of the year, while nurturing the creative, sustainable, and forward-thinking brands that will define the future of Irish food & drink.
The Food Academy, now in its 12th year, is a partnership between SuperValu and the Local Enterprise Office & is the only accredited producer development programme in Ireland, from Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin). Food Academy offers participants a Certificate in Food Entrepreneurship and a robust combination of mentoring, industry insights, and retail strategy.
Through expert-led workshops and direct engagement with SuperValu’s Food Academy team, producers refine their products and build the skills needed to succeed in a competitive retail environment. The programme’s results speak volumes: Food Academy products have exceeded €260 million in retail sales, with a projected €30 million in sales for 2025 alone.
Among the producers now on shelves are Dublin Spice Company, NU Infusions, and Bay Biotics – just a few of the innovative food and drink companies emerging from this year’s cohort. Their success demonstrates how the Food Academy acts as a launchpad for creativity, sustainability, and local enterprise, offering real opportunities for brands to grow from startup to national recognition.
Jerh O’ Sullivan, Interim Trading Director at SuperValu, said: “SuperValu proudly supports local Irish businesses, working closely with Food Academy participants to drive strong product launches and customer engagement. This year’s participants will benefit from a 52-week listing, giving them valuable exposure to connect with shoppers and refine their brands. We’ve seen firsthand how the Food Academy helps innovative food and drink businesses thrive. The exceptional quality and taste of the products year after year, showcases Ireland’s incredible talent and passion. As the food sector evolves, the Food Academy remains at the forefront – fostering innovation, empowering entrepreneurs, and building a more resilient, sustainable industry. It’s more than a programme; it’s a movement shaping the future of Irish food. We look forward to seeing this year’s participants make their mark and continue Ireland’s rich tradition of food and drink innovation.”
Keith Barry and Yasmin Halpin, Founders of Bay Biotics, said: “We founded Bay Biotics in 2025 with the goal of bringing the natural benefits of sustainably harvested Irish sea moss to homes across Ireland. Our sea moss gels are vegan, gluten-free, preservative-free, and packed with essential nutrients. We take pride in using only fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create a nutrient-rich addition to any lifestyle. The Food Academy has been transformative in helping us refine our production, branding, and market reach. We’re incredibly grateful for the invaluable support they’ve provided, and we can’t wait to see our handcrafted sea moss gel products on SuperValu shelves, reaching even more customers. It’s been an exciting journey, and we’re thrilled to be part of such an impactful programme.”
Brian Malone, Founder of Dublin Spice Company, said: “I set up Dublin Spice Company in 2023, following my return to Ireland from Papua New Guinea, specializing in spices, superfoods, vanillas, and gourmet salts. The Food Academy has been instrumental, equipping us with the branding, mentoring and training to grow our business successfully and sustainably. The programme has not only improved our business operations but also granted us access to a wide network of like-minded entrepreneurs who we can learn and garner opportunities from.
Conor Mreehan and Fionn Murphy, Founders of NU Infusions, said: “We started NU Infusions in 2018 after discovering the energising benefits of the caffeinated guayusa leaf from the Amazon. Thanks to Food Academy, we’ve been able to refine our concept and bring our energising water kefir product to the gut health and energy category. From the very first cup, we noticed its unique effects: an energizing lift without the jitters or crash of traditional caffeine sources. We’re beyond excited to see our product on SuperValu shelves and are grateful for the opportunity to be part of such an innovative and supportive programme. We can’t wait to share our refreshing, gut-friendly drink with even more people.”
