Local companies shortlisted for producer Awards

Three Meath companies, Carton Brothers Ltd, Kepak Group and Kerrigan's Mushrooms have been shortlisted in the inaugural SuperValu Irish Food Producers Awards. The winners of the awards are to be announced this week in Dublin. Carton Brothers Ltd, from Clonee, has been shortlisted in the innovation category. The judges were impressed with the company's quick reaction to consumer needs. Carton Brothers put their garlic part-bone chicken breasts into production when focus groups, along with market research projects, identified a need for "meal solutions" for the "time poor" consumer to homemade standards. The brief issued for the innovation award challenged entrants to demonstrate a clear commitment and investment in product innovation. The award recognises producers who have identified a hidden opportunity in the market and developed an ambitious, visionary and successful venture. Carton Brothers' investment in a state-of-the-art R&D facility, plus the contribution of two per cent annual overheads in R&D, demonstrated to the judges that the company clearly places high value on the importance of innovation. The Kepak Group, also based in Clonee, was nominated in the quality category of the awards. The brief issued for the quality award required suppliers to demonstrate a sustained, exceptional performance and commitment to quality, when it comes to manufacturing and delivering their product. Kepak cemented its place on the shortlist with its impressive submission which detailed a passion for food safety, with HACCP and QUACCP systems in place. Every detail of the product is checked every step of the way, ensuring full traceability. Kerrigan's Mushrooms, which trades as Goldshield Products (Foods) Ltd, is based in Kells, and has also been shortlisted in the quality category of the awards. Its submission stood out from the crowd with its traceability and quality control systems, based on HACCP and Bord Bia Quality assurance. Daily analysis of products in order to monitor and assess freshness and shelf life, plus the fact that all products are on customers' shelves within 24 hours of being picked, meant the company was given a place on the shortlist. The overall winner will be awarded the title of the SuperValu Irish Food Producer of the Year, which recognises one supplier above all others who clearly demonstrates excellence in all aspects of their business. Winners of each category will be announced at an awards ceremony today (Wednesday 21st April).