Research by Edelman and the Marketing Institute of Ireland has shown that 70% of Irish marketers intend to increase the percentage of their marketing budget given to social media in 2016. 51% said Facebook was their main social network for business, with LinkedIn and Twitter the priority for 22% and 21% respectively.
A total of 193 Spar outlets have been acknowledged with 5 Star Awards for exceptional retailing standards, at a ceremony held at Killashee House in Co. Kildare. Some 250 retailers were in attendance at the annual event, which was in its 16th year. Congratulating the winners, Colin Donnelly, Spar Sales Director, said, “Spar and Spar Express retailers are renowned for demonstrating industry leading standards, and it’s an honour for us to be able to reward their hard work and diligence at these annual awards."
Agriculture and food development agency Teagasc is set to hold a lecture presented by CEO of the CGIAR Consortium, Dr Frank Rijsberman, entitled ‘Transforming Agri-food Systems to Achieve Healthy Diets For All’, at the RDS Merrion Room, 23 March.
First Ireland Spirits, which makes Feeney’s Irish Cream and Dubliner Irish Whiskey Liqueur, has announced revenues of €450,000 last year. The Sunday Times reports that the Quintessential Brands-owned company is looking to expand into new markets.
Cork County Council and the Ring of Cork have joined forces to prevent litter and encourage people to keep towns, villages and the countryside clean for St. Patrick’s celebrations. The Thinking Green, Think Clean awareness campaign is the first in a series of initiatives, which sees Cork County Council, the Ring of Cork and SECAD working together.
West Cork-based company Irish Yogurts has received €320,000 in funding from Enterprise Ireland, reports The Sunday Times. The company now employs 160 and supplies a number of retailers across Ireland and the UK, including Sainsbury’s.
Caffe Nero is optimistic about its Irish prospects despite start-up costs here contributing to the firm recording a loss of €430,000 last year. The Irish Examiner says the company plans to invest €20 million here and open 40 stores in the near future.
West Cork Distillers has received an investment of €1.4 million from Merrion Capital, according to The Sunday Times. The company is also being backed by Danu Investments, owned by Michael O’Rourke, Leonard Ryan and Mark O’Meara.
Further Luas strike action has been announced for 2 and 3 of April, as well as 23 and 24 April as drivers and the company have failed to come to an agreement over pay disputes. Strikes had already been scheduled for St Patrick’s Day, and Easter, drawing criticism from the Small Firms Association for the potential effect on Dublin City businesses.
Rye River Brewing is looking to raise €7 million for its expansion plans, according to The Irish Times. The maker of McGargles craft beers is hoping to acquire at least €100,000 in crowdfunding through the Kickstarter platform and through EIIS funding, and is in talks with domestic investment funds.
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