Aldi Ireland has announced its plan to renew contracts with a number of small Irish craft breweries to supply its store network nationwide.
Rascals Brewing Company, Black Donkey Brewing and Brehon Brewhouse will have Specialbuy Craft Beers on sale across 142 Aldi stores over the coming weeks.
“The closure of all pubs, restaurants, and hotels in the country, along with the absence of tourists has meant the loss of approximately 80% of our market,” said Richard Silberry, founder, Black Donkey Brewing.
Black Donkey Brewing first partnered with Aldi’s through its 'Grow with Aldi' programme last year.
"We supplied product to Aldi stores in February 2019, and while we didn’t get a permanent listing at the time, we are happy to get a second opportunity to build our relationship," he added.
'Contract Extension'
Aldi has also extended the contract for Lough Gill Company who produce Lough Gill Native IPA.
The independent, family-run craft beer brewing company originally came on board with Aldi to launch its Native IPA beer as part of the summer seasonal range, which will now run into the autumn, said the discount retailer.
COVID-19 is crushing small business right across the country. With borders and bars closed, we have lost our draft sales and our export markets," said James Ward, founder, Lough Gill Brewing Company.
"Working with Aldi has been a great Lifeline to us in terms of cash flow. Consumers want to support us and with the help from Supermarkets like Aldi we can get our products in front of these very customers," he added.
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