Laois company launches in Supervalu nationwide
It's one of 21 companies which completed the Food Academy programme
Laois-based Solanti is one of 21 new food and drink producers now launching its products in selected SuperValu stores across Ireland, following their completion of the Food Academy programme.
Solanti is produced in Ireland using natural ingredients, small batch blending and a commitment to clean formulation. Its electrolyte range is created using pure Himalayan minerals combined with Irish innovation. Every batch is made with care, reflecting its belief that wellness products should be both effective and naturally grounded.
Founders of Solanti, Noel and Adam Walsh, said: “We founded Solanti to create a range of Irish-made Himalayan salt electrolytes tailored to modern, health-conscious consumers. By investing in a manufacturing facility at the foothills of the Himalayas, we’ve ensured full control over quality, traceability and the ethical sourcing of our core ingredient. The Food Academy programme has played a vital role in shaping our launch. The workshops offered valuable insights from successful Irish producers, while the structure and deadlines provided the accountability needed to move from concept to reality.”
Commercial Director Trading, Finbar McCarthy, 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.”
Head of Food Sector, Network of Local Enterprise Offices, Oisin Geoghan, 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.”
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.
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SuperValu shoppers can discover a range of exciting new Irish food and drink products which are 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.
The launch highlights the positive impact that the Food Academy supported by SuperValu has had in helping Ireland’s food and drink offering, which empowers new and emerging Irish food and drink producers to bring their products to shelves, connecting Irish shoppers with high-quality, locally produced food and drinks.
Food Academy producers bring great-tasting products to SuperValu shelves, characterised by bold flavours, innovative ingredients and vibrant branding. By supporting small producers to scale sustainably, the programme also expands the range of locally made food and drink available to customers year-round.