Leitrim suppliers urged to apply for 'kickstart' following the success of Drumshanbo bakery

Lidl Ireland has called on Leitrim’s food and drink producers to apply for a 'kickstart' as it launches its 2026 Lidl Kickstart Supplier Development Programme, designed to support small and medium sized suppliers into the industry. 

With applications now open for the 2026 intake, Lidl is asking to hear from up-and-coming Leitrim suppliers looking to grow their business and supply the supermarket. 

Last year’s intake saw more than 46 artisan products from 25 Irish producers hit the shelves of Lidl stores across the island of Ireland. Leitrim suppliers that have taken part in the programme over the last number of years include Jinny’s Bakery Ltd. 

A statement to the Leitrim Observer said: "Now in its tenth year, the Lidl Kickstart Supplier Development Programme, backed by Bord Bia, offers artisan producers a crucial opportunity to enter the highly competitive supermarket retail sector. Successful applicants undergo a bespoke six-month supplier development programme, receiving dedicated business support from Lidl’s inhouse experts, and culminating in a promotional listing of Lidl Kickstart supplier products across the retailer’s 234 stores across the island of Ireland."

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The six-month Lidl Kickstart Supplier Development Programme provides successful applicants with dedicated business support from Lidl Ireland's in-house experts, focusing on practical aspects such as production efficiency, product development, packaging, social media guidance, administration support and strategies for successful scaling. 

Kevin Duffy, Chief Commercial Officer at Lidl Ireland & Northern Ireland, said: 

"Lidl's Kickstart Supplier Development programme champions local Irish producers. It's not just about getting products on our shelves; it enables these businesses to grow significantly, offering our customers a fantastic, vibrant selection of innovative new Irish products.

We are incredibly proud of the programme's long-term success. Over the past ten years, we’ve seen phenomenal achievements from participants like Fused by Fiona, securing full, permanent listings and becoming everyday fixtures in our stores. What’s more, we’ve leveraged our massive international store network to help products go global, opening up exciting new markets across the UK, Europe, and the USA. 

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As we look to build on this decade of success, we really want to encourage any aspiring food and drink entrepreneurs who are interested in scaling their business to connect with us." 

Applications for the 2026 Lidl Kickstart Supplier Development Programme are now open until January 31st, 2026. Interested producers can visit www.lidl.ie/kickstart