A pioneering mentorship programme has been launched to support small local food producers in Northern Ireland to grow and develop their businesses.
The ‘Scale with Sysco’ initiative, devised by Ireland’s largest foodservice supplier Sysco with support from Invest NI, will help emerging suppliers to take the next step in their growth journey, equipping them with guidance, resources, and opportunities to scale up with confidence and ambition.
Unveiled at the IFEX food, drink, retail and hospitality trade event, it offers a comprehensive programme, leveraging Sysco’s scale, expertise, and customer network to help small suppliers thrive.
Joanne Cunningham, merchandising director at Sysco Ireland, said: “This programme reinforces our commitment to championing exceptional local brands that share our values of sustainability, quality, innovation, and authenticity.”
The programme includes a 12-week development phase supported by Invest NI, covering essential modules such as food safety, supply chain, marketing, finance, and e-commerce.
Successful applicants will benefit from an initial nine-month listing, targeted media coverage, digital presence, and opportunities to showcase their products at key events and through sessions at the development kitchen at Sysco Belfast.
Gráinne Moody, director of food and drink at Invest NI, said: “We’ve been working closely with Sysco to offer advice and guidance on its new supplier development programme, and are delighted that it’s launching today.
“By supporting the 12-week workshop, we’re helping Sysco to champion exceptional local brands that will contribute to the growth of Northern Ireland’s food and drink supplier base, and ultimately our economy.
The announcement follows a series of recent additions to Sysco’s growing portfolio of local brands, including Clandeboye, Yellow Door Bakery, Clearer Water and Forest Feast.
Applications for the programme have now opened and will be followed by a rigorous selection process culminating in a ‘Meet the Buyer’ event and final selection of up to five suppliers to be listed.
