Minister launches 2025 SuperValu TidyTowns Competition

The 2025 SuperValu Tidy Towns competition was launched today by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, alongside the Managing Director of SuperValu, Mr. Luke Hanlon .

In place since 1958, the competition, administered by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht and sponsored by SuperValu, continues to be one of the most recognised sustainable, environmental and community initiatives in the country.

Speaking at the launch of the competition in Ballincollig, Minister Calleary said; “I am delighted to be here in Ballincollig, Ireland’s Tidiest Town for 2024, as we launch the 2025 SuperValu TidyTowns competition. This year we celebrate 67 years of this wonderful competition, which continues to thrive year on year - its success benefits us all.”

There are almost 1,000 active TidyTowns groups, and last year saw over 900 entries to the SuperValu TidyTowns competition. This saw over 30,000 volunteers giving up over 1 million hours of their time, all year round, to come together to make our communities cleaner, brighter and more vibrant places.

Minister Calleary continued: “TidyTowns groups have been instrumental in supporting and enhancing the government’s objective to ensure towns are sustainable, resilient and thriving hubs of commercial and social activity.

“I would encourage everyone to reach out to their local group and volunteer, you will be surprised at the benefits that can accrue to you and to your wider community.”

“I would like to say a special thank you to our national sponsor, Supervalu, now in their 35th year of sponsoring the competition. SuperValu have been wonderful partners on this journey and I look forward to continuing this partnership in the coming years.

Speaking at the launch today, Luke Hanlon, Managing Director of SuperValu, said: “The launch of the SuperValu TidyTowns competition is an exciting time for committees and volunteers nationwide, as we look forward at what can be achieved to enhance our communities in the weeks and months ahead”.

“This year marks SuperValu’s 35th year as proud sponsor of this wonderful initiative, a testament to the tireless work of volunteers and the Department in driving its continued growth and success. The SuperValu TidyTowns competition has become synonymous with SuperValu itself, thanks to the reach of our independent retail network across the country and our deep-rooted commitment to supporting communities at a local level.

"As a community retailer, we take great pride being involved with SuperValu TidyTowns for another year and our Independent retailers play a vital role in supporting and engaging with this initiative.”

Minister Calleary concluded by thanking the TidyTowns volunteers throughout the country and wishing them well in the 2025 competition.

The closing date for receipt of entries for this year’s competition is Monday May 12th, 2025. Entry to the competition will only be accepted by email to the TidyTowns@drcd.gov.ie email address. Entry forms for the SuperValu TidyTowns competition are available at www.tidytowns.ie.

Full details of the competition are available on www.tidytowns.ie or www.supervalu.ie