Cavanagh’s ‘Happy Hens’ Secure ‘Eggsellent’ Deal with Asda NI
New NI Supply Deal Announced at 2016 Balmoral Show
Fermanagh-based Cavanagh Free Range Eggs has won its first major supermarket deal, which will see it supply its locally farmed free range eggs to Asda stores across Northern Ireland.
As a result of the new contract, all eggs sold in Asda’s 16 NI stores will be locally sourced. It will also help to build the Cavanagh Eggs brand and sustain jobs in the family-run business which currently produces 12 million free range eggs per year and employs seven people at its onsite packing centre outside Newtownbutler.
The deal was announced at this year’s Balmoral Show – the same venue where Eileen Hall from Cavanagh Eggs initially approached Asda to discuss supply opportunities. Cavanagh also took part in last year’s ‘Meet the Buyer’ event held in Asda’s Enniskillen store.
Since then the company has followed guidance provided by Asda’s local sourcing team, including achieving Lion Accreditation – the recognised quality and traceability guarantee.
Eileen is also currently part of Asda’s Supplier Development Academy which seeks to help local food producers boost their business potential with the retailer.
Commenting on the contract Eileen said: “This is a major development for Cavanagh, marking a significant step forward for our small but very committed team.
“Over the last four years we’ve focused our efforts on building the brand and developing our product range to ensure we’re ideally positioned to supply major supermarkets. We know that contented hens produce the best quality, tasty eggs, and we’re delighted that Asda has also recognised this. We believe the move will also be appreciated by their NI customers.”
Brian Conway from Asda NI’s Local Sourcing Team added: “It’s great to see Cavanagh Free Range joining our growing list of local suppliers an another top quality, fresh product range taking pride of place on our shelves. This is yet another example of our commitment to NI Year of Food and it also shows how initiatives such as our Supplier Development Academy are delivering positive business results for local producers.”
As well as being the only egg company in Ireland to hold both the prestigious ‘Great Taste’ and the ‘Irish Food Quality’ awards, Cavanagh Eggs are used by chefs across Northern Ireland including those from The Lough Erne Resort and The Merchant Hotel.
