ANTRIM-based manufacturing firm Golden Popcorn has won a £500,000 contract to supply crisps to 140 Aldi stores in the Republic
The deal, which was secured following financial and business development support from Invest NI will see Golden Popcorn produce its healthy crisps for Aldi Ireland’s Snackrite brand.
The firm's managing director Sean McClinton said: “The snack industry has changed dramatically over the last five years as consumers look for healthier alternatives, and Aldi Ireland’s new Satin Crunch crisps which will be produced by us certainly fit the bill.
“We purchased new machinery a number of years ago which has enabled us to develop and add new products to our portfolio and meet the demands from key customers like Aldi.
He added: “The Republic of Ireland is our main market and this deal is yet another step forward for our business.
“Invest NI’s business development support has been invaluable in helping us to build relationships with high profile supermarket chains like Aldi. We're optimistic that this deal will be a catalyst for success in other markets.”
Invest NI offered £45,000 of support towards the purchase of new equipment as well as expert business advice and guidance through a range of virtual meet the buyer events.
The agency's food and drink director John Hood said: “Golden Popcorn is a highly ambitious SME which is using innovation, new product development and exports to ensure the future sustainability of its business.
“This is a winning strategy, which is earning the company a strong reputation in the snack industry and paying dividends in the RoI market.
“We have supported Golden Popcorn over a number of years to expand its business and grow in other markets, and his deal represents another great milestone for the company.”
