Mayo-based company's product hits the supermarket shelves

Mayo-based Melody’s is one of 21 new food and drink producers now launching their products in selected SuperValu stores across Ireland, following their completion of the Food Academy programme.

SuperValu shoppers can look forward to discovering a range of exciting new Irish food and drink products hitting shelves nationwide, as 21 ambitious producers launch in stores following completion of the Food Academy programme. This marks a significant milestone for these producers as they bring their locally produced products, which will be on shelves for 52 weeks of the year, to selected SuperValu stores.

Melody’s product range includes a wholefood bar made from dates, nuts and dark chocolate handmade in small batches using minimally processed ingredients. The products are produced clean and balanced, with no refined sugar or additives, in small quantity production, using strict quality control and zero food waste.

Nicole O’Malley, founder of Melody’s said: “I created Melody’s, starting from a converted horse-box in Co. Mayo, where I developed a wholefood Snickers-style bar for hikers and surfers. Made in small batches using dates, nuts, and dark chocolate, my products are rooted in simple, natural ingredients with no refined sugar or additives.

“The Food Academy programme has helped me refine the brand, understand the retail landscape and prepare to bring a community-led, nature-inspired food product onto shelves while staying true to my values.”

Finbar McCarthy, Commercial Director Trading said: “At SuperValu, we are proud to support local, up-and-coming food and drink producers as they take important steps in their journey into retail. Small producers play a vital role in shaping a diverse and innovative food culture across Ireland, and we are committed to helping them grow and succeed. Through the Food Academy, participants have the opportunity to see their products on selected SuperValu shelves for 52 weeks, giving them valuable exposure and experience in the market.

Oisin Geoghan, Head of Food Sector, Network of Local Enterprise Offices said: “The 31 Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) across Ireland are delighted to continue our support for the Food Academy programme with SuperValu. Food Academy provides a fantastic opportunity for innovative small local food producers to gain market traction by getting their product on the shelves of SuperValu. It is important that the producers are equipped with the competencies and know-how so that they can manage the process of becoming a supplier to a major retailer. LEOs offer a range of supports, helping producers to acquire the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to make that leap in retail sales.”