Seven Welsh food and drink businesses will travel to Dublin from 23–25 March as part of a focused export trade visit aimed at securing new retail and foodservice listings in Ireland.
The delegation, specialising in bakery and chocolate, will meet senior buyers from leading Irish and international organisations including Musgrave Group (SuperValu, Donnybrook Fair), Tesco Ireland, Marks & Spencer Ireland, Sysco Ireland and Aramark.
Ireland remains a key near-market for Welsh producers, offering strong cultural alignment, established supply chains and growing demand for premium, high-quality products.
Huw Irranca-Davies, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, said:
“Ireland is one of our closest trading partners and an important market for Welsh food and drink businesses looking to grow exports.
This visit provides a valuable platform for producers to build relationships with major buyers and turn Wales’ reputation for quality, provenance and sustainability into tangible commercial opportunities.”
The programme includes a Meet the Buyer event at the Clayton Hotel, Ballsbridge, alongside retail visits and networking opportunities, including Donnybrook Fair and Avoca’s flagship location in Kilmacanogue.
Wales’ food and drink sector continues to perform strongly internationally. In 2023, exports reached a record £813 million, with 75% going to EU markets-highlighting the importance of nearby markets such as Ireland for future growth.
Ray D’Arcy, Managing Director of Tregroes Waffles, said:
“Ireland is a natural next step for Welsh brands. It’s a market where quality and provenance really matter, and where Welsh products can compete strongly.
Having direct access to buyers from major retailers and foodservice companies in one visit is a significant opportunity for us to grow our export business.”
Rhys Llywelyn, Senior Export Advisor for the Food & Drink Wales Export Cluster, added:
“This visit is focused on creating real commercial outcomes. We’re bringing together Welsh producers and buyers who are actively looking for new products, with the aim of progressing quickly from initial conversations to trials and listings.”
Participating producers
- ANRProbake – Manufacturer of nutritionally enriched baked goods focused on healthier product innovation
- Cradoc’s Savoury Biscuits – Artisan bakery producing savoury crackers and breadsticks
- Tregroes Waffles – Employee-owned Welsh waffle producer with over 40 years’ experience
- The Cake Crew – Independent UK cupcake manufacturer supplying retail and wholesale markets
- Coco Pzazz – Artisan chocolate brand combining premium chocolate with sustainable packaging
- Gwalia Bakery (Burt’s) – Third-generation family bakery established in 1914
- Just Love Food Co – Specialist allergen-free cake manufacturer covering all 14 allergens