Celebrating 2023’s hero brands

Genuine brand innovation is essential to generate continual excitement, renewed interest and repeat sales across every category of your store. Here, we celebrate the brands that have done just that – through both captivating marketing and quality products and NPD that really hits the mark with Irish shoppers

Brand Central

21 December 2023

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As the year draws to a close, ShelfLife is once again shining a spotlight on the standout products of 2023. The products highlighted here, whether they represent fresh innovations or enduring classics, deserve to be celebrated for their distinct roles and contributions in the Irish market. In 2023, despite the challenges posed by grocery price inflation, numerous brands managed to achieve remarkable sales outcomes, igniting enthusiasm and renewing interest in their respective categories.

Firm family favourite

Yoplait Skyr is creamy, rich in protein and fat free

Still celebrating 50 years in Ireland, Yoplait remains a firm favourite with Irish consumers. Generations of Irish families have literally ‘grown up’ on their favourite Yoplait Fruit Yogurts, Yops, Petit Filous and Frubes which are still enjoyed in homes everywhere.

Favoured by parents as a snack of choice for the whole family, the Yoplait range is rich in calcium and vitamins and has been enjoyed in homes and lunch boxes all over the country since the 1970s.

Just like families, tastes and demands change generation by generation and ever responsive to modern consumer preferences.

This year’s biggest addition to the Yoplait family is the Skyr range which is based on a creamy Icelandic recipe. Yoplait Skyr is creamy, rich in protein and fat free making it the perfect snack to meet the demands of a busy lifestyle or enjoyed at home with the family.

Most recently, Yoplait has just launched its new Skyr blended four packs featuring four new delicious flavours, Mango, Peach, Red Fruits and Raspberry, available in stores nationwide.

Fercullen Irish whiskey has secured a host of accolades

Double gold champion

The Powerscourt Distillery has enjoyed a highly successful year, as demonstrated by its Double Gold medal win at the 2023 Irish Whiskey Awards held in Dublin. The Powerscourt Distillery, producer of Fercullen Irish Whiskey, is known for its exceptional Irish whiskey and has secured many accolades, marking a milestone in its short but impactful history.

The Powerscourt Distillery achieved notable success at the 2023 Awards, winning Double Gold in the ‘New Irish Whiskey’ category for Fercullen Single Malt and Estate Series 3 “The Gates”.

This category is exclusive to distilleries open for three to six years and requires whiskey to be distilled on-site. This award is a significant milestone for both The Powerscourt Distillery and County Wicklow, highlighting the distillery’s commitment to quality and placing it firmly on the Irish whiskey map.

John Cashman, head of NPD and brand at Powerscourt Distillery, expressed his delight at the distillery’s achievements, noting: “This recognition is a testament to our team’s unwavering dedication to excellence. Each award we receive is not just important for Powerscourt Distillery but an acknowledgement of the rich heritage and innovative spirit that defines Irish whiskey.

“These awards are extra special as they are decided by whiskey clubs and societies across Ireland rather than professionals from the drinks industry,” he added.

Organised by Celtic Whiskey Shop, The Irish Whiskey Awards is a division of the Celtic Whiskey Shop Limited, which celebrates the pinnacle of whiskey craftsmanship and saw Powerscourt Distillery standing out among peers with its eight nominations. This success story underscores the distillery’s commitment to producing world-class Irish whiskey, combining traditional techniques with innovative approaches.

As Powerscourt Distillery continues to rise as a leader in the whiskey industry, it remains dedicated to upholding the high standards that have earned it international and critical acclaim. The team at The Powerscourt Distillery looks forward to bringing more exceptional and innovative products to whiskey enthusiasts around the globe.

Refreshingly light, premium lager

Peroni Nastro Azzurro Stile Capri offers lower bitterness and lower 4.2% (ABV) than the original Peroni Nastro Azzurro

Peroni Nastro Azzurro is currently ranked at number seven in lager brands year-to-date (YTD) with a value growth of 11% vs YTD 2022*. This high-quality Italian beer addresses increasing demand for super premium beers. With significant investment in media, and thanks to the success of The House of Peroni event, in August 2023, Peroni Nastro Azzurro has a brand awareness of 93% across Ireland**.

Peroni Nastro Azzurro has invigorated the sunshine beer category in summer 2023 with a brand-new, refreshingly light lager, Peroni Nastro Azzurro Stile Capri. The latest innovation from Peroni Nastro Azzurro features a subtle spritz of Italian lemon and lower bitterness to deliver exceptional quality and taste credentials – with no lime needed!
Aimed at a younger on-trade consumer searching for great refreshment from the category, brand-new Peroni Nastro Azzurro Stile Capri offers lower bitterness and lower 4.2% (ABV) than the original Peroni Nastro Azzurro, with exceptional quality and taste credentials.

Inspired by the taste and scent of Capri, an island in Italy’s Bay of Naples, the new brand from Peroni Nastro Azzurro offers a subtle and lightly aromatic flavour. The launch came in time for summer and was ideal for informal occasions.

Peroni Nastro Azzurro will support the launch of Peroni Nastro Azzurro Stile Capri further in 2024 in media and in both the on-trade and off-trade channels with the objective of building awareness of innovation.

*(Source: Nielsen Off Trade Data to 13.08.2023 – YTD)
**(Source: Red C Brand Tracking ROI Q3 2023)

Unique nutty recipe

The Lindt Nocciolatte Milk Hazelnut Bar contains whole roasted hazelnuts enrobed in a layer of smooth milk chocolate and hazelnut filling

Since 1845, the Lindt master chocolatiers have combined their expertise with the highest quality ingredients from around the world to produce the finest chocolates.

Discover the sumptuous combination of crunchy and creamy with the nutty Lindt Nocciolatte Milk Hazelnut Bar, the ideal on-the-go chocolate bar. Your shoppers will get a delicious boost of energy when they peel back the deep blue wrapping to reveal whole roasted hazelnuts enrobed in a layer of smooth milk chocolate and hazelnut filling, sealed with a final layer of our velvety milk chocolate.

The Nocciolatte range is growing +76.4% YOY versus the singles category at +12%.

For the dark chocolate lovers, discover Noccionoir Dark Hazelnut Bar – with whole roasted hazelnuts enrobed in a layer of intense dark chocolate.

Lindt & Sprüngli is a leader in the confectionery category offering a wide selection of premium quality chocolate and continues to drive growth into Ireland’s countlines category. The Nocciolatte range is growing +76.4% YOY versus the singles category at +12%.

Make sure to stock up and bring a unique nutty recipe to your shoppers with Nocciolatte.

*(Source: Nielsen – Total Scantrack – Nocciolatte 35g range Countlines and Impulse Countlines Category – Value Sales @ MAT to 13.08.23 vs. prior MAT)

Protein power

The Lindahls High Protein range combines the technical benefits of protein shakes and bars with all the taste and enjoyment of chilled dairy

The Lindahls High Protein range continues to go from strength to strength in the Irish market.

Especially the Lindahls Pro+ range which brings the technical benefits of protein shakes and bars with all the taste and enjoyment of chilled dairy in a convenient ready to eat format.

Lindahls Pro+ stands out in chilled dairy with its unique mix of whey and casein protein in 50:50 ratio, which may help to maintain a good balance between protein synthesis and the prevention of protein breakdown in the body.

Each Lindahls Pro+ pot 150g contains 18g protein and as well as being high in protein it is also fat free and low sugar. There are less than 100 calories per pot. The current Lindahls Pro+ range includes delicious flavours such as Lemon Cheesecake and Banoffee Pie and the newest flavour is Blueberry Muffin.

In addition, the Lindahls Protein Puddings continue to spur on the desserts category with their smooth texture and indulgent flavours of Chocolate and Salted Caramel. They are a treat and high protein, low fat and low sugar.

Lindahls is excited to support women’s football and is the official partner of Chelsea FC Women 2023-2024 season.

Champions of crunch

2023 has seen another triumphant year for Keogh’s Crisps. The brand’s crinkle cut range remains the fastest growing crisp range in Ireland this year and is set for an exciting 2024 with its recently relaunched new look packaging. The revamped packaging and expanded range are poised to captivate consumers’ attention, ensuring that Keogh’s remains a top choice for those seeking both flavour and crunch.

One standout offering is Keogh’s Crisps’ latest flavour sensation: Smoked Barbeque and Irish Whiskey. This unique blend is the result of a groundbreaking partnership with Dublin based, Teeling Whiskey, renowned for its quality spirits. The infusion of Irish whiskey adds a distinctive twist to the traditional barbecue flavour, creating a snack experience that resonates with both connoisseurs and casual snackers alike.

Keogh’s beloved Sweet Chilli Crisps also had a stellar 2023 picking up three prestigious awards: Great Taste, Blas na hÉireann and Irish Quality Food and drink award. Available in both impulse and sharing size, they are expecting great things for this flavour in 2024.

Liquid development at Keeper’s Heart is led by master distiller Brian Nation, who has more than 22 years of experience working on renowned whiskey brands

Keeping traditions at heart

Keeper’s Heart was created by whiskey icon Brian Nation, formerly master distiller for some of the most well-known Irish whiskeys including Jameson, Redbreast, and Midleton,

Keeper’s Heart is a new style of whiskey, bringing together the best of Irish and American whiskey-making traditions.
Keeper’s Heart Irish + American Whiskey launched in 2021 in the United States, and quickly expanded its portfolio with Keeper’s Heart Irish + Bourbon.

With its innovative liquid and expert craftsmanship, Irish + American became the most awarded new whiskey brand in 2022, including International Wine and Spirits Challenge Platinum, Ultimate Spirits Challenge 94, Critics Challenge International Platinum and Proof Award Double Gold honours. In 2023 Keeper’s Heart launched it’s 10-year-old Irish Single Malt Whiskey which has been awarded the prestigious title of “Best in Class – Irish Whiskey” at the renowned San Francisco World Spirits Competition, the oldest, largest, and most prestigious spirits competition in the world.

Speaking about the foundation of O’Shaughnessy Distilling Co., co-founder Patrick O’Shaughnessy said: “Our great-great grandfather came to the United States from Ireland, and our large extended family has stayed close to our Irish roots. Keeper’s Heart was created to celebrate that. We are extremely proud of the Keeper’s Heart team and the reception the brand has received since we launched. It has made it possible to continue to grow Keeper’s Heart and evolve the liquid offerings, and now, as we begin international distribution, Ireland was at the top of the list.”

Liquid development is led by master distiller Brian Nation, who has more than 22 years of experience working on some of the most renowned and high-quality Irish whiskeys in the world. Born and raised in Cork City, Ireland, he moved to Minnesota following a meeting with the O’Shaughnessy family to embark on a new adventure and create a new style of whiskey, marrying the best of Irish and American whiskey-making traditions.

Keeper’s Heart features in the Best of The Year for 2023 with three products launched this year in Ireland- Keeper’s Heart Irish + American Whiskey, Keeper’s Heart Irish + Bourbon and Keeper’s Heart 10-year-old Irish Single Malt Whiskey; all proudly distributed by Barry & Fitzwilliam.

Function and flavour in abundance

ROY Kombucha has quickly become one of Germany’s leading kombucha brands

Hosons Brands is delighted to extend its portfolio of premium soft drink brands with the inclusion of one of Europe’s most exciting kombucha brands, ROY Kombucha. This now joins Something & Nothing, LemonAid+ and ChariTea in the agency’s impressive offering.

ROY Kombucha has quickly become one of Germany’s leading brands in the kombucha space, from the brand’s humble beginnings in a small 10 sqm home kitchen in the hip Neukölln area of Berlin in the summer of 2019. ROY’s double digit year-on-year growth has resulted in the brand becoming the choice kombucha for premium HoReCa locations and retailers in all major German cities, prompting a recent move in production facility to a 300sqm brewery in order to fulfil their growing demand and scale further.

ROY Kombucha’s founder, Fabio Carlucci, is recognised as one of the pioneers in the European kombucha industry

Part of the ROY success story has been credited to its clever and unique approach to merge the world of kombucha with existing categories and communities beyond their core flavours.

Collaborations with some of Germany’s best-known start-ups and hospitality companies include quick-commerce hotshot Gorillas for their ROY x Gorillas Banana Kombucha limited edition in stylish black cans, a unique Coffee Kombucha with world-renowned coffee roastery The Barn, Germany’s best-known craft brewery BRLO to create a delicious Hops Kombucha and Germany’s largest poké bowl chain Ma’Loa to bring the taste of Hawaii in a can with a Pineapple Kombucha.

Ireland will be ROY’s twelfth international market, a monumental feat for a brand only four years into its journey. This is primarily due to the brand’s founder, Fabio Carlucci, being recognised as one of the pioneers in the European kombucha industry. Alongside creating ROY Kombucha and KombuchaBrewingKit.com – a one stop shop for all kombucha home brewing needs – he also founded an annual international conference called Kombucha Summit in 2019.

Danny Hogan, managing director of Hosons Brands said: “We’re incredibly excited to welcome ROY Kombucha to the Irish market as part of the Hosons Brands portfolio. ROY is an exceptional challenger brand that is elevating the kombucha market across Europe and I’m confident they’ll be very well received here in Ireland. We have found Irish consumer’s appetite for functional beverages has increased dramatically in the past year, in alignment to the trends from the US and UK, and ROY brings both function and flavour in abundance which should bode well for the brand’s growth.”

ROY Kombucha is currently available in Ginger, Raspberry, Cucumber & Mint and Lemon flavours in One Kinda Folk, Greenville Deli, Two Beans, Gaillot et Gray and other premium retailers across Dublin. For more information on Hosons Brands, visit www.hosons.com. Contact Danny Hogan, managing director, Hosons Brands at +353 86 453 8795 or email DPH@hosons.com.

Ireland’s favourite

Irish actress Amy Huberman is the brand ambassador for Tanqueray 0.0%

Donegal Catch, Ireland’s leading frozen fish brand for almost 40 years, launched a new range of Fishcakes in August 2023. Designed with busy professionals, couples and families in mind, these convenient new fishcakes are sure to elevate any meal occasion at home. With two portions per pack, they are perfect as a starter, part of a lunch spread, or a quick midweek evening meal. These fishcakes can be cooked from frozen and are suitable for both air fryers and ovens. Developed and made in Ireland using responsibly sourced fish and the packaging is fully recyclable.

The range is as follows; Irish Haddock Ginger & Chilli: A fusion of 100% Irish haddock, fluffy mashed potato, and the vibrant flavours of chilli and ginger. Irish Hake Lemon & Parsley: Made with 100% Irish hake, complemented by lemon, parsley and a blend of herbs, combined with the irresistible texture of mashed potato and Donegal Catch’s signature golden breadcrumbs. Atlantic Salmon: Prepared with 100% Atlantic Salmon, this fishcake features a delightful blend of fluffy mashed potato and herbs.

Supporting responsible fishing practices, Donegal Catch works closely with all fish suppliers to source the best quality fish, fully traceable back to the boat. The brand will continue to bring new innovation to the category with a focus on driving category growth.

The bartender’s choice

Amy Huberman is the brand ambassador for Tanqueray 0.0%

Spanning a legacy of nearly two centuries, Tanqueray is one of the most iconic spirit brands and the bartender’s choice for the perfect G&T and fabulous gin-based cocktails. With an extensive collection of award-winning premium spirits products, the brand’s craftmanship and premium credentials is a go-to choice for consumers who are seeking to elevate an occasion and not compromise on quality.

Capturing the growing trends in the alcohol-free category, Tanqueray 0.0% launched in Ireland this year and announced Irish actress, Amy Huberman as brand ambassador.

Tanqueray 0.0% brings an exciting new addition to the market allowing consumers to discover the same quality taste as a definitive Tanqueray G&T, without comprising and the alcohol.

Ireland is the number one fastest growing alcohol-free market globally (Source: KAM Media June 2022), with eight out of ten Irish adults say it would be helpful to have an alcohol-free alternative readily available for social occasions and 78% likely to try an alcohol-free alternative of a brand they know and love (Source: Diageo Pulse Survey, October).

The alcohol-free gin has been crafted and perfectly balanced using the same distinct blend of four quality botanicals used in the making of Tanqueray London Dry gin, resulting in a citrus and juniper led profile, with a delicate botanical complexity. Tanqueray’s four quality botanicals (piney juniper, peppery coriander, aromatic angelica and sweet liquorice) are individually immersed in water, heated, and then distilled to give a complex, delicious flavour, yet zero-alcohol.

Tanqueray 0.0% makes the most refreshing non-alcoholic G&Ts and cocktails for celebrating this Christmas and all year round. Available in retailers and selected on-trade locations nationwide. For more information, visit www.tanqueray.com.

Zero chance of missing out!

This Christmas, Gordon’s 0.0% lets you do it all without having to compromise! People want to be able to do it all, see their mates, go out to the parties and events while still being able to get up and go to the gym or work the next day. Therefore, Gordon’s 0.0% can help your shoppers balance all life’s commitments without having to compromise. The chances of missing out are…zero with Gordon’s 0.0%.

Gordon’s 0.0% alcohol-free has the same iconic flavour as of the original Gordon’s London Dry Gin, with a smooth texture, and a complex flavour profile featuring bold juniper notes and a subtle hint of citrus. With only six calories per 50ml serving and sugar-free, it is significantly lighter than a traditional gin.

Gordon’s 0.0% alcohol-free is available in all major retailers, wholesalers, and pubs nationwide.

SOUPerb giveaway!

Cully & Sully is giving away five €500 prizes through its limited-edition soup lids

2023 has been a busy year for Cully & Sully.
The brand wanted to wrap up the year by giving back to its ‘SOUPerb’ customers.
A bit like Wonka, Cully & Sully is giving away five €500 prizes through its limited-edition soup lids.

All your customers have to do to enter is lift the lid on the promotional tubs and follow the simple steps hidden inside it. The €500 SOUPermarket vouchers will take the pinch out of five customers’ food shops ahead of Christmas day.

This season Cully and Ivan (the development chef since day dot) are sharing lots of SOUPerb Christmas cooking and gifting tips and tricks on their Instagram and Tiktok that will make your Christmas extra delicious!

Some things the company is very proud of this year include, reducing its packaging by 2 tonnes of plastic annually, recertifying as BCorp, starting its carbon footprint journey, and sponsoring the Big Beach Clean in Ireland which saw volunteers collect over 46 tonnes of marine litter. That’s the equivalent weight of 12 hippos!

2024 will be a big year for Cully & Sully too as the soup, risotto, broth and pie brand turn 20 years old! The brand has lots of exciting campaigns planned that you can catch sneak peaks of on its monthly newsletter.

Sweet triumph in 2023

Cleeve’s new packaging pays homage to the brand’s rich history while capturing the attention of today’s discerning consumers

In the dynamic landscape of 2023’s confectionery market, Cleeve’s Irish Confectionery has emerged not only as a survivor of time but as a thriving symbol of tradition, quality, and Irish heritage. Under the guidance of Ampersand, the brand’s significant rebranding initiative and recipe upgrade have not only resonated with consumers but positioned it as a standout Irish brand for 2023.

Cleeve’s chocolate bars, steeped in the affection of Irish consumers since 1882, now boast a minimum of 30% cocoa solids. This enhancement delivers an intensified chocolate experience, showcasing the brand’s commitment to culinary excellence.

Moreover, the chocolate is now palm oil and vegetable oil-free, a move echoing Cleeve’s and Ampersand’s dedication to unparalleled quality and ethical sourcing.

The visual transformation of Cleeve’s has received great reaction from both retailers and consumers alike. The new packaging seamlessly blends modern sophistication with vintage charm, creating a visual narrative that pays homage to the brand’s rich history while capturing the attention of today’s discerning consumers. Vibrant gold typography and art-deco inspired branding evoke nostalgia while adding a contemporary flair. The eco-friendly, recyclable, colour-coded flow pack foil packaging and casing ensures the chocolate bars not only maintain freshness but also stand out on retail shelves.

Operated from a 2,000 square meter factory in Newbridge, Co Kildare, Cleeve’s commitment to sustaining Irish jobs is evident throughout its supply chain. The new confectionery line distributed by Ampersand encompasses a range of milk chocolate confections and bars, embodying the essence of Irish craftsmanship and quality. The inclusion of a child-friendly popping candy variant, along with toffees and caramels, adds a playful twist to the brand’s offerings.

Cleeve’s newly rebranded chocolate bars, priced attractively at €1.20 in a convenient foil format, cater to those consumers looking for an authentic Irish treat. The range includes timeless flavours such as Macaroon, Mint Crisp, and Sea Salt Caramel Crisp. Sharing sizes, priced at €2.30 for the 90g pack format for Macaroon and Mint Crisp, offer a generous option for those looking to indulge or share. The new Cleeve’s Popping Candy Chocolate Bar, priced at just 50c for the playful 20g format, adds a delightful and affordable option for a fun treat.

Cleeve’s Irish Confectionery’s success in 2023 is not just about delectable treats but a journey through the past, present, and future of Irish confectionery traditions. As retailers seek to connect with consumers through rich brand stories, Cleeve’s rebranding initiative offers an opportunity to share in the legacy of Irish confectionery. The brand’s enduring appeal, commitment to quality, and sustainable practices make it a must-stock item for 2024, ensuring its sweet influence continues to captivate confectionery enthusiasts for generations to come.

For more information, visit cleevesirishconfectionery.ie or connect on Instagram and Facebook. Retailers can place orders by contacting their Ampersand representative or calling the sales line at 01 4130150.

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