Louth-based company launches in SuperValu stores across Ireland
Louth-based company launches in SuperValu following completion of Food Academy programme
Louth-based Raha Curry is one of 21 new food and drink producers now launching their products in selected SuperValu stores across Ireland, following their completion of the Food Academy programme.
Raha Curry is a premium retail Indian brand based in Dundalk. Its products include Butter Chicken Ready Meal, handmade Naan, and Onion Bhaji Box which use traditional techniques including slow cooking, careful spicing, and real ingredients.
Now in its 13th year, the Food Academy is delivered by a partnership between SuperValu and the Local Enterprise Office and 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 robust learning through combination of expert led workshops, hands on mentoring, and practical retail insights providing the skills needed to succeed in a fast‑moving food retail sector, while staying true to what makes their products special.
SuperValu shoppers can look forward to discovering a range of exciting new Irish food and drink products hitting shelves nationwide, as 21 ambitious producers launch in stores following completion of the Food Academy programme.
This marks a significant milestone for these producers as they bring their locally produced products, which will be on shelves for 52 weeks of the year, to selected SuperValu stores.
Ashwarya Prasad, founder of Raha Curry said: “I founded Raha Curry out of a profound passion for authentic Indian cooking. Raha Curry is rooted in generations of family tradition in spice trading and hospitality. I wanted to bring the flavours I grew up with, the depth, the balance, the slow craft behind every dish to new customers.
"After opening my restaurant Raha Indian Cuisine in 2023, the strong local response inspired the creation of Raha Curry. The Food Academy has been instrumental in supporting the journey from restaurant to retail, providing the platform to bring our traditional flavours to a much wider audience.”
Finbar McCarthy, Commercial Director Trading said: “At SuperValu, we are proud to support local, up-and-coming food and drink producers as they take important steps in their journey into retail. Small producers play a vital role in shaping a diverse and innovative food culture across Ireland, and we are committed to helping them grow and succeed.
"Through the Food Academy, participants have the opportunity to see their products on selected SuperValu shelves for 52 weeks, giving them valuable exposure and experience in the market. As the food sector continues to evolve, programmes like this are essential in nurturing new ideas and ensuring customers can enjoy a wide range of high-quality, locally made products.
"Ultimately, the Food Academy is about championing Irish producers and giving them the support they need to build sustainable businesses.”
Oisin Geoghan, Head of Food Sector, Network of Local Enterprise Offices said: “The 31 Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) across Ireland are delighted to continue our support for the Food Academy programme with SuperValu.
"Food Academy provides a fantastic opportunity for innovative small local food producers to gain market traction by getting their product on the shelves of SuperValu. It is important that the producers are equipped with the competencies and know-how so that they can manage the process of becoming a supplier to a major retailer.
"The Local Enterprise Offices offer a range of supports, helping producers to acquire the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to make that leap in retail sales.”