Retail NI, the driving force behind Northern Ireland’s independent retail and wholesale sector, proudly kicked off its highly anticipated second Annual Supplier Showcase Event. With an even greater lineup of suppliers, this year promised to be an extraordinary celebration of local producers and manufacturers.
Paddy Murney, Retail NI Chair, said: “Our Supplier Showcase was bigger and better than ever and illustrates the support we provide to many new and existing local agri-food sector companies with their route to market with our retail and wholesale members.
“Retail NI now represents businesses, large and small, throughout our local supply chain and we are actively working with hundreds of new-start agri-food members to scale up their businesses.”
The event, which took place from 3pm to 6 pm on February 27 at Titanic Belfast, was a unique opportunity for industry players to network, collaborate, and highlight the significant impact local businesses have on the wider economy.
Guest Speaker Steve Baker MP, Minister of State for Northern Ireland, provided valuable insights into the industry’s current challenges and opportunities.
He said: “I am deeply honoured to have been a participant in this dynamic event that highlighted the resilience and innovation prevalent in Northern Ireland’s retail and wholesale sectors. The Supplier Showcase orchestrated by Retail NI not only paid tribute to our local producers and manufacturers but also facilitated invaluable connections and insights crucial for the future of our business community. This extraordinary event celebrated the vibrancy and diversity of our local business landscape and served as a platform to connect, discover, and support the remarkable talent driving our economy forward.”
Liam O’Connor, Sales and Marketing Director at Biopax Limited, emphasised the company’s commitment to the sustainable movement in the food and drink sector: “Biopax Limited was honoured to be a key partner for Retail NI’s Supplier Showcase. This event provided an invaluable platform for local businesses to showcase their products and services, and we were thrilled to contribute to the growth and success of the Northern Ireland business community.”
John Lucas from Bobby’s Foods added: “Bobby’s Foods was proud to stand alongside Retail NI in supporting the Supplier Showcase. We believe in the strength of local businesses, and this event was a fantastic opportunity to highlight the innovation and quality that our community brings to the retail and wholesale sectors.”
nijobfinder’s Colin Maxwell concluded: “We take great pride in sponsoring one of the liveliest trade events in the retail industry. This sector plays a crucial role in job creation and significantly contributes to the local economy. Any event that recognises and applauds these efforts is truly essential.”
With over 50 exhibits, this year’s showcase presented a diverse array of products and services from local suppliers, showcasing the strength and resilience of Northern Ireland’s business community.
