Lidl Ireland has announced an expanded supply deal worth over €30m with Keohane Seafoods which will see the West Cork-based seafood company increase its supply of fresh, frozen and new range of ready-to-eat products across the retailer’s 184 stores throughout Ireland.
Under the terms of the new deal, Keohane Seafoods will also export its fresh Irish seafood to Lidl stores across Europe, including Germany, France, Switzerland and the Canary Islands.
Founded in 2010 by Michael Keohane and his two sons Colman and Brian, Keohane Seafoods secured its first contract with Lidl Ireland in 2011.
The partnership deal has grown over the last 14 years, with the retailer awarding Keohane Seafoods its first major contract worth €20m in 2022.
Working alongside Lidl, the seafood business now employs 285 people across its sites, with 200 staff in Bantry and 85 in Cork.
Colman Keohane, Managing Director of Keohane Seafoods, said the company’s partnership with Lidl has been one of the main ingredients to its success.
“Lidl has been an essential partner for our growth and their continued belief and investment has given us the unique opportunity to showcase our products to Lidl customers both locally and internationally. Our longstanding contract with Lidl has not only fuelled the company’s growth but also created valuable employment opportunities within the Cork community,” he said.
Emma Nolan, Senior Buyer at Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland, said the retailer’s priority is to offer high-quality, premium products at affordable prices.
“Over the course of our partnership, Keohane Seafoods has significantly scaled their business, creating valuable employment opportunities within the local community. Their unwavering commitment to product development, innovation, and sustainability perfectly aligns with our own business ethos,” she said.
“We are thrilled to be part of their journey, bringing a premium product to Lidl stores not just in Ireland, but across the UK and Europe,” she added.
