ShelfLife March 2026

Since the inaugural event in 2024, the Irish Food Trade Connect Forum has grown significantly in both scale and depth of engagement. Donna Ahern caught up with Margaret Dineen, the event founder and CEO.

John Healy looks at the importance of ensuring an optimum in-store experience for shoppers.

Caroline Reidy looks at what organisations and HR need to know about the Employment (Contractual Retirement Ages) Bill 2025.

Nikki Murran reports on the quiet shift towards experience in the Irish grocery retail sector.

Donna Ahern caught up with Simon Carroll, managing director, Hale to discuss why buying from a fully registered supplier like its company eliminates uncertainty as retailers are increasingly under pressure to remain compliant

In this month’s Category Focus Features we look at Baby and Infant, Roll Your Own Tobacco, Dairy, No/Low Sugar and Sustainability.

Check to see who has been out and about in this month’s Social Diary!

April Feature Line-Up

Sugar Confectionery – Demand remains strong despite growing health awareness, with consumers still prioritising indulgence and taste. We will highlight the latest product innovation and must-stock brands for retailers.

Soft Drinks – Ireland’s soft drinks sector continues to grow, with strong performance in bottled water, sports drinks, and RTD coffee. We will also look at the continued impact of the Deposit Return Scheme.

Ice Cream – Impulse purchases remain a major driver, accounting for 30% of sales according to Nielsen. Our feature will explore the latest trends and opportunities in this category.

Irish Whiskey – With exports surpassing €1 billion and global demand continuing to rise, this feature will spotlight the brands driving growth in the premium and super-premium segments.

Fruit & Vegetable Supplier Report – Fresh produce remains a core basket driver, with increasing demand for convenience formats and locally sourced options.

Sales, Marketing & Distribution Companies – A spotlight on the companies helping brands grow their retail presence across Ireland.

Festival Fever – A seasonal retail opportunity as shoppers prepare for summer events, with demand for drinks, snacks, supplements and on-the-go essentials.

International Cuisine – As Irish consumers continue to explore global flavours at home, this feature highlights brands bringing authentic ingredients to supermarket shelves.

Deadlines

• Editorial/images: April 8
• Advertising: April 10

To find out more, contact the sales team – ian.mulvaney@mediateam.ie and/or mark.morgan@mediateam.ie