Lidl calls on Donegal suppliers to apply for a 'kickstart'

Lidl Ireland calls on Donegal’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 keen to hear from up-and-coming Donegal suppliers looking to grow their business and supply Ireland’s Most Reputable 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. Donegal suppliers that have taken part in the programme over the last number of years include Football Special Ltd and Corveen Glen Meat Company.

READ NEXT: Road safety at Oldtown and Lismonaghan junctions top of council priority list

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.

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.

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."

Commenting on the partnership, Adam Baker, Global Retail Specialist at Bord Bia said: "Lidl's Kickstart Supplier Development Programme is an invaluable opportunity for any emerging Irish food or drink business. Now in its tenth year, this hugely successful supplier development programme has really gone from strength to strength!

"It's a superb chance for small businesses to get their products in front of a major retailer, with multiple opportunities to upscale your business and potentially sell your product in over 234 stores across the island of Ireland. This programme can help Irish brands prepare for international growth and export potential, aligning with Bord Bia’s mission to champion Irish food, drink, and horticulture on the global stage."

Applications for the 2026 Lidl Kickstart Supplier Development Programme are now open until January 31st, 2026. Interested producers can visit the website.