5 in a Row for Tirlán
5 in a Row for Tirlán
Tirlán is the only company to achieve Origin Green Gold for the fifth year in a row
Tirlán was delighted to be recognised as the only company to achieve Origin Green Gold Membership status for the fifth year in a row. The Origin Green Gold externally verified accreditation is strong recognition of Tirlán’s progress on its Living Proof sustainability programme and the Bord Bia standard is recognised at both a national and internal level by our customers.
We asked three Tirlán Origin Green stakeholders what this achievement means to them.
Sinead Treanor, ESG Programme & Governance Reporting Manager
Origin Green continues to equip Tirlán to meet the evolving sustainability needs and demands of global consumer markets. Along with our sustainability strategy, Living Proof, it supports our position as credible and ideal partners for sustainable produce and future investment. In setting and achieving measurable sustainability targets, it helps us to reduce our environmental impact and achieve a range of efficiencies in the daily running of our business.
As the only business in Ireland to achieve 5 gold status memberships in a row, verified data points audited by a third party builds trust with Tirlán customers and consumers. It also provides a platform to bring cross functional units together on a common purpose while also giving Special Matter Experts (SME’s) an understanding of ESG reporting and the importance of robust validated data.
This current evidence-based reporting structure supports Tirlán’s obligations under the Corporate Social Responsibility Directive (CSRD) reporting from 2026, where time bound targets and actions are an integral part of showing how Tirlán are continuing to build a sustainable food production system across our whole value chain.
In continuing to engage with the Origin Green team, it gives us access to new tools and sustainability reporting information, while also providing us with the opportunity to network across the food and drink industry through workshops and events.
Matthew Moylan, Farm Sustainability Development Advisor
Origin Green provides the Agri team with an opportunity to share and build on the progress of many of our sustainability initiatives, such as the work Tirlán are doing through FarmGen, Twenty20 Club, the ASSAP programme, and now the Slaney project.
Water quality continues to be a particular focus in Tirlán, as many of our farm families and their Co-op continue to implement key actions in support of the retention of the nitrates derogation. Building on the success of previous years, to date the Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advisory Programme (ASSAP) initiative has delivered over 650 water quality improvement plans for farmers in high priority catchment areas to assist in delivering best practice while simultaneously improving biodiversity.
Tirlán has also launched the River Slaney Project in collaboration with Teagasc and the Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO). This community-based water quality remediation project is designed to set a benchmark in best practices and support farm families in working to maintain and improve water quality on their farms.
Aoife Murphy, Chief Ingredients Officer
Bord Bia Origin Green Membership is an international mark of excellence. As a country, we are lucky to have such a comprehensive programme to showcase our sustainable food production system.
Sustainability is embedded and key to all aspects of the Tirlán business. We continue to work collaboratively with our farmers and our customers to deliver more innovative and sustainable dairy and grain ingredients which are crucial in feeding the growing global population and meeting the demand for protein.
Recognition for Tirlán
Recognition for Tirlán
Over the past few weeks, Tirlán has been recognised and rewarded at various events
Safety First
Tirlán Lough Egish achieves NISO Distinction with Shingo Framework
Tirlán Lough Egish is leveraging the Shingo framework to ensure performance consistency and drive continuous improvement. This approach aligns seamlessly with our Business Excellence functions strategy and framework.
Shingo framework mandates that all our principles, systems and tools are fit for purpose, fostering workplace behaviours that yield optimal business results. As part of our Shingo program, our Health and Safety Manager, Danielle Greenan, has been instrumental in establishing proactive H&S systems on site.
The National Irish Safety Organisation (NISO) award complements our Shingo framework by recognising organisations that have effective systems and tools in place to maintain a safe workplace. For over 60 years, NISO has been cultivating safety cultures in Irish organisations through the promotion of best practices, training, and advice. Their mission is to ‘create conditions where Irish workplaces are among the safest and healthiest in Europe’. NISO collaborates with the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), and their committee includes an HSA representative.
Attending the NISO awards provided a valuable opportunity to network with organisations across Ireland that are dedicated to workplace health and safety.
Safety at Tirlán Lough Egish
Danielle Greenan has been a dedicated member of the Tirlán Lough Egish team for six years. Starting in production and quality, Danielle was promoted to Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) Manager in 2022. Under Danielle’s leadership, the Environmental, Health and Safety function has been effectively established to align with the site’s strategy. Utilising existing Tirlán systems like 3M, we manage safety on a daily basis and execute projects aimed at continuous improvement.
Employee engagement is fostered through the safety committee, training programs, the good saves system, recognition initiatives (daily and quarterly safety hero) and safety walks. A significant achievement for the site is our Lost Time Accident (LTA) metric, with over 560 days LTA free. We are immensely grateful to everyone on site who ensures we uphold our safety priority – ‘Health & Safety First, Quality Always, Compliance Everyday’.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone at Tirlán Lough Egish who has taken on safety-focused roles and tasks. Winning the NISO Distinction Award is a testament to the hard work, dedication and passion of our unit at Tirlán Lough Egish. Congratulations to the entire team on this prestigious award!
Keep it Lean
Tirlán is recognised at the 2024 Lean Business Ireland Awards 2024
The annual Lean Business Ireland Awards ceremony was held at Croke Park on the 24th of October 2024. This prestigious event, organised by Lean Business Ireland (LBI) in collaboration with Enterprise Ireland and the IDA, celebrates the remarkable achievements of public and private organisations that have successfully implemented Lean thinking and practices.
Tirlán is proud to have competed in three distinguished categories – Large Lean Business of the Year, Lean Champion of the Year, and Contribution to Knowledge Sharing. Our entries underscore our unwavering commitment to Lean thinking as a cornerstone of Tirlán’s success. Key initiatives such as our 3M strategy deployment model, COVI (Cost-Out-Value-In) saving initiatives, Learning Academy and Problem-Solving Deployment initiatives are driving our strategic growth and progress.
Our vision – “To Create a Global Community Celebrating Wholesome Nutrition from the Land We Live and Love” – guides our global aspirations and business endeavours.
Our mission – “Nourishing Lives in Harmony with Nature” – passionately expresses our core purpose and dedication.
Congratulations to the entire Tirlán team for their outstanding achievements and for being recognised at this prestigious event!
Innovation recognised
Top honours for Tirlán at the 2024 CILT Awards
The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Ireland hosted their 72nd annual awards recently and we are thrilled that Tirlán won the CILT Digital Supply Chain 2024.
The Digital Supply Chain Award is an accolade given to organisations that have shown exceptional innovation and success in implementing digital technologies to improve their supply chain management processes. This award recognises the use of modern technologies such as automation, artificial intelligence and data analytics to improve efficiency, reduce costs, minimise waste and enhance the overall customer experience. It celebrates those who have embraced the digital revolution and have made significant contributions to the advancement of the supply chain industry.
It is fantastic recognition of the work of Pat Murray and Connie Murphy in particular who completed the project, along with support from other cross-functional projects within the business.
The CILT is the world’s leading organisation for professionals in logistics, transport and supply chain. The awards are judged by an independent panel of industry experts and academics. These are the only awards for professionals judged by professionals and awarded by a professional industry body.
“A win for us all”
Tirlán CountryLife’s finalists at the Retail Excellence Awards talk about the importance of recognition for the whole team
Our Tirlán CountryLife team in Fethard received significant recognition this year, with branch manager Tommie Campbell nominated as a finalist for Retail Manager of the Year at the prestigious Retail Excellence Ireland Awards.
Competing against top retail managers nationwide, Tommie’s nomination underscores the impact of his leadership and the customer-centred environment he has cultivated.
On awards night, Tommie competed with leading brands across Ireland. While he didn’t take home the top prize, his achievement as a finalist reflects his dedication and the collaborative spirit at Fethard.
Brian Mullally, Head of Regional Sales – West, at Tirlán, praised the team’s efforts: “Reaching the finals is no small feat and we’re proud of the hard work and spirit Tommie and the Fethard team bring every day. This recognition affirms Tirlán’s dedication to excellence in all aspects of our stores, from customer service to community engagement.”
Reflecting on the nomination, Tommie shared: “Our team is incredibly dedicated and connected to the community. Since our reopening last April, the energy in the store has been amazing. We’ve built real relationships with our customers; they come in not just for products but because they feel valued and connected. Reaching the final stages has been a team effort and this recognition feels like a win for us all.”
Additionally, Tirlán CountryLife Athboy, recently expanded and refurbished, was a finalist in the National Retailer of the Year category, showcasing its remarkable transformation. Darren Kelly, now Area Manager for the Northern region and Athboy branch manager, said: “Seeing Athboy shortlisted among Ireland’s top retail locations is a testament to our team’s commitment and the support of our community. I’ve seen this branch go from strength to strength and I’m thrilled their hard work has been recognised at such a high level.”
This year’s nominations highlight Tirlán CountryLife’s commitment to delivering exceptional service, community focus and quality across all branches.
Chewing the cud with ... Tommy Maher
Chewing the Cud with… Tommy Maher
Each month, we put the spotlight on a Tirlán employee. For our November newsletter, we’re talking to Business Development Manager Tommy Maher
In this edition of Chewing the Cud, we are excited to feature Tommy Maher, a Business Development Manager for Oat Ingredients, focusing on the European region. Tommy’s journey with us began in May 2022.
Tommy grew up on a dairy farm in Loughmore, Co Tipperary, where he developed a strong interest in the agriculture and food sectors. He pursued his passion by studying Agricultural Science at University College Dublin (UCD) and later completed a Master’s in Food Business and Technology at Technological University Dublin (TUD).
Before joining Tirlán, Tommy worked with two dairy companies. His career started with Ornua, where he was mostly based in Manchester with their dairy powder blending business, Ornua Nutrition. He then moved on to Glenstal Foods, focusing on dairy commodities sales into export markets like South East Asia. These experiences have equipped Tommy with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the dairy industry.
At Tirlán, Tommy serves as a Business Development Manager for Oat Ingredients, focusing on the European region. His role involves selling the applications of Tirlán oat ingredients, which are used in traditional products such as porridge, cereals, and bakery items, as well as in non-dairy applications like beverages, yogurt, and ice cream. These non-dairy applications are experiencing significant growth, and Tommy is excited for the future of Oat Ingredients at Tirlán.
Tommy says: “The most enjoyable part of my job is getting to grow relationships with new customers. The plant-based market is experiencing major growth at the moment and oat ingredients are one of the highest used grains in this market.”
He believes customer experience and engagement are key to winning in this space. “Bringing customers to the Portlaoise Oatmill, Abbey Quarter Customer Experience Centre and the Ballyragget Innovation Centre is key to collaborating and innovating with our customers.
“Customers always leave the Oatmill with the confidence that Tirlán oat ingredients are produced to the highest quality. Visits to the Innovation Centre or Customer Experience Centre in Abbey Quarter allow us to showcase our ingredients in application, which will provoke new ideas or allow us to have deeper conversations about our customers’ needs and how we can meet them. In short, the impact from customer visits is many times larger than online or Teams meetings and is vital for growth with customers.”
Attending tradeshows has been another highlight for Tommy in his career to date at Tirlán. “Tradeshows are a great place to meet current customers and build rapport, which is easier to do in person. They are also important for prospecting customers and building your opportunity pipeline, while also building your knowledge of the market, whether that is innovations, trends, or competitors.”
Outside of work, Tommy has a big interest in sports and is involved with his local GAA club, Loughmore-Castleiney. “We have had a great year this year, winning the Tipperary Senior Championship in both Hurling and Football. I also help out with coaching the underage teams when I can.
Tommy looks forward to plant-based continuing to grow. “The plant-based market has seen impressive growth over the past few years, which makes it a hugely exciting industry to be involved in. That doesn’t mean the market hasn’t seen some challenges, with Oatly and other large manufacturers experiencing some challenges in recent years, but overall the plant-based trend is here to stay and will continue to grow.”
Making Connections and Fostering Growth
Making Connections and Fostering Growth
Bord Bia Trade Mission 2024 fosters growth and meaningful relationships
In October, we participated in the final Bord Bia Trade Mission for 2024 which took us to one of our key development markets, South East Asia. In attendance from Tirlán were Gwen Gould, Head of Ingredients Marketing, Al Chen, Senior Sales Manager ASPAC and Michael Gannon, Category Manager, Dairy Powders. This Trade Mission enabled us to make significant connections and progress on our journey to grow this market. The mission provided an invaluable platform to engage with key figures such as Senator Pippa Hackett, Pat Bourne, Ireland’s Ambassador to Thailand and Deirdre Ní Fhallúin, Ireland’s Ambassador to Vietnam, as they look to grow Irish relations in these markets. Their insights and unwavering support have been instrumental in advancing the prospects for Irish dairy in these growing markets.
The trade receptions held in Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City were particularly fruitful, offering us the chance to network with potential customers and explore new market opportunities. These events underscored the significance of face-to-face interactions in building trust and fostering long-term business relationships.
A highlight of the mission was our participation in the Food Ingredients Vietnam Trade Show. This event not only allowed us to showcase our high-quality products, but also facilitated meaningful engagements with industry leaders and peers. The positive feedback and interest we received have reinforced the importance of such international missions in expanding our global footprint.
Game on at Gamerfest 2024
Game on at Gamerfest 2024
Sonic the Hedgehog hosted the Mooju Live stage at this year’s Gamerfest
Gamerfest is Ireland’s largest gaming exposition which took place in the RDS, Dublin, Oct 19th/20th. October saw record attendance of 8,000 fans of computer games, board games and cosplay pass through the doors.
Mooju is a co-sponsor of Gamerfest as the brand aims to forge relationships with the Irish gaming audience. And what better way to get people’s attention than having the iconic Sonic the Hedgehog host Sonic Speed Challenges on stage. Participants had a chance to win a variety of prizes if they completed the lap in the fastest time.
Sonic the Hedgehog is SEGA’s most valuable asset and the speedy blue hedgehog has starred in countless computer games, cartoons and movies. The partnership between Mooju and Sonic the Hedgehog is a big win for Mooju, which plans to further develop its gaming strategy in 2025.
To celebrate the recent Sonic the Hedgehog partnership, Mooju is giving away 3 x €100 Smyths Toys vouchers. Smyths has a range of computer games and consoles on offer.
WIN!
To be in with a chance of winning, please answer the below question by filling out the following form:
https://forms.office.com/e/simG89GHSX
What is the name of the fox that appears in the Sonic the Hedgehog computer game?
October Overherd Mooju competition winners
Peter McGuinness, Laura Brennan, Anthony Farrell, Darragh Crowe and Yvonne O’Neill
Tirlán Sponsors Savour Kilkenny
Tirlán Sponsors Savour Kilkenny
Savour Kilkenny success with over 68,000 attendees
We were delighted to once again sponsor the Savour Kilkenny Food Festival this year. Established in 2008, Savour Kilkenny celebrates the best of produce, food and culture of Kilkenny and features a strong line-up of food producers, cookery demos by top chefs, interactive talks and family entertainment.
Attracting over 55,000 visitors each year, Savour Kilkenny is a fantastic opportunity to showcase both Tirlán and Avonmore, together.
Our Avonmore Family Favourites sampling area attracted a huge number of consumers who were delighted to taste our latest launches from Avonmore, including Vitamins AND More Protein Water and Avonmore High Protein Soups, as well as family favourites like Avonmore Whipped cream. Consumers also had the opportunity to win a selection of prizes including Country Life vouchers, Mooju Hats and free samples if they guessed the correct answer to our interactive competition.
We were also thrilled to sponsor Chef Rory O’Connell from Ballymaloe Cookery School on the main stage, who whipped up a storm using Avonmore Cream and Butter. Rory O’Connell is a huge advocate of Irish dairy and his cookery demo was one of the most attended events in Savour Kilkenny.
The event is great profile for both Tirlán and Avonmore and a wonderful opportunity to be part of a food festival that celebrates the best of Irish food.
Super Science with Avonmore Super Milk
Super Science with Avonmore Super Milk
Get the family involved in Avonmore Super Milk’s ‘Super Science Experiment’
As part of Science Week, which runs from November 10-17, Avonmore Super Milk has developed a fun ‘ice-cream in-a-bag’ science experiment that allows families to explore some simple science together at home. Made with Avonmore Super Milk and a few other ingredients, a little curiosity and some energy, with this experiment you can enjoy delicious ice cream all year round!
Avonmore Super Milk has 30% more calcium than regular unfortified milk and is enriched with Vitamin D, which supports bone health and the immune system too. It’s also enriched with Vitamins B, E and folic acid. So not only is this experiment a fun activity, you’re getting some important nutrients too! We’re also giving families the chance to win a gift card to Explorium: The National Sport and Science Centre. Visit www.avonmore.ie/superscience for more information and to try the experiment for yourself.
Win!
To celebrate, we’re giving employees the chance to win 1 of 3 x €100 Explorium gift cards. To be in with a chance to win, simply answer the question below in the following form:
https://forms.office.com/e/RQhfZnvjyu
True or False: Avonmore Super Milk is enriched with Vitamin D and has 30% more calcium than regular whole milk
Tirlán and Wexford GAA partner up
Tirlán and Wexford GAA partner up
Tirlán & Wexford GAA enhance Athletic Development for 5,000 students
Pictured at the launch of the new partnership in Gorey Community School were Jackie Tyrrell, Tirlán, John Murphy, Chairperson of Tirlán, Kian Steadmond, Gorey Community School, Vincent Higgins, Creagh College, Kate Ní Luasaigh, Gorey Community School, Jamie Kennedy, Creagh College, Micheál Martin, Wexford GAA Chairperson and Declan Browne, Director of Athletic Development
This partnership aims to support athletic performance and development across nine schools in the region, benefitting over 5,000 students annually. The sponsorship supports a comprehensive programme that focuses on athletic development and first and second year competitions.
A major component of the programme is functional movement screening/testing, where first-year students will undergo regular assessments three times a year. In addition, weekly coaching sessions will be provided to players from senior colleges A and B competitions. These students will receive tailored training programmes from strength and conditioning coaches, allowing for both individual skill development and team-focused progress.
Wexford GAA Chairman, Micheál Martin welcomed Tirlán’s support of the programme stating: “Our integrated Athletic Development Programme has been a tremendous success since its inception two years ago. It centres around putting the welfare and development of young players at the core of our activities. The support of Tirlán will help us further develop the programme to support students, further upskill teachers and assist post primary schools with gym facility upgrades in participating schools. This initiative will involve assisting schools in upgrading their gym equipment, so that students have access to modern, well-equipped training facilities that foster their athletic growth.”
Tirlán Chairman, John Murphy commented: “We are delighted to partner with Wexford GAA supporting the next generation of athletes. Growing up and living in Wexford, I’ve seen first-hand the huge impact of the GAA as a positive force in our community. Tirlán, being fully farmer-owned, is committed to strengthening the communities we serve. This new programme underscores Tirlán’s commitment to Wexford – not only as a region rich in agriculture but as a community. Tirlán has a long-standing connection with Wexford, and we are proud to support sport in the local community.”
Win the Dog’s Dinner with GAIN Elite Salmon!
Win the dog’s dinner
Be in with a chance to win new GAIN Elite Salmon dog food for your best furry friend
Exciting news! As part of the new GAIN Elite Salmon launch, the GAIN Pet Nutrition team is offering one lucky Tirlán employee a chance to win a six-month supply of GAIN Elite Salmon dog food. This new flavour is specially tailored to meet the needs of dogs of all sizes. It is packed with real milk calcium, vitamin D and phosphorous for strong bones, an immunity boost with essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, and an irresistible taste with larger kibble and extra juices for the picky eaters.
Additionally, GAIN Elite Salmon is designed for digestive ease with soluble fibres and prebiotic FOS. It also promotes holistic health with an optimum Omega-3 to Omega-6 ratio and a joint care blend.
Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
CLICK HERE to enter and give your furry friend the best nutrition with GAIN Elite Salmon dog food.
Celebrating Our People
Celebrating Our People
Tirlán CountryLife Branches Shine at Retail Excellence Awards 2024
We are thrilled to announce that two of our Tirlán CountryLife branches are shining examples of what makes us great. Fethard Branch Manager, Tommie Campbell (pictured above), has been shortlisted for Retail Manager of the Year, while our Athboy branch is in the running for National Retailer of the Year at the prestigious AIB Merchant Services Retail Excellence Ireland Awards for 2024. These nominations reflect the hard work, dedication and passion our teams put into their roles every day.
Tommie, who joined Tirlán CountryLife Fethard just last year, has quickly become an integral part of the local community. His leadership and commitment have earned him a spot among the top five finalists for Retail Manager of the Year, competing against some of Ireland’s biggest brands. Tommie credits this achievement to the entire Fethard team, saying:
“This is very much a team effort. We had our grand reopening here last April and it has brought new life into the branch and the community. Local people have really rowed in with support and it’s a great place to come to work every day. We’re a close-knit team and we love what we do. We’re all thrilled to be recognised for our efforts.”
Meanwhile, excitement is also building in Athboy. Following its grand reopening just a year ago, the Athboy branch has been shortlisted in the Top 40 National Retailers of the Year. This is a remarkable achievement for the team, who have worked tirelessly to make the newly extended branch a focal point of the community. Darren Kelly, Athboy’s Manager, who was shortlisted for the Manager of the Year award last year, couldn’t be prouder:
“It’s an honour to have made it to the top 40. The investment in the Athboy branch has been nothing short of transformational. We’ve an incredible team here and our horticulturist, Alma Hayden, is central to absolutely everything here. She drives it all, from the quality of the products and produce to customer service. We’re looking forward to a great night at the awards.”
These awards celebrate excellence in Irish retail and having two of our branches recognised at this level is a true testament to the commitment and teamwork we see every day across Tirlán CountryLife. It’s not just about the stores – it’s about the people who make them great, from the warm welcome at the door to the expert advice and service offered by every team member.
We’re looking forward to a fantastic night at the awards in Galway on November 2. Let’s wish both Tommie, Darren and their teams the best of luck. No matter the outcome, we are incredibly proud of all they’ve achieved and grateful for their dedication to Tirlán CountryLife.
Let’s continue to celebrate and support one another as we strive for excellence together!