New 'Scale with Sysco' Programme Boosts Local Food Producers Across NI

Exciting news for North Belfast's vibrant food scene and beyond! Sysco Ireland, the country's largest foodservice supplier, has just launched an innovative new programme designed to help our fantastic local food producers grow and flourish. With strong support from Invest Northern Ireland, the 'Scale with Sysco' initiative aims to empower small businesses, helping them expand sustainably while keeping their unique local character.

Unveiled recently at IFEX, Northern Ireland's leading food and drink trade event, this programme is a significant investment in the future of local food production. With a growing 37% of customers now actively seeking out local businesses, 'Scale with Sysco' offers a comprehensive mentorship scheme. It will leverage Sysco's vast expertise and customer network to guide small suppliers, providing them with the tools to access new markets, adopt more sustainable practices, and enhance their product lines.

Joanne Cunningham, Merchandising Director at Sysco Ireland, shared her enthusiasm: "We're thrilled to launch Scale with Sysco, a programme that really underlines our dedication to championing exceptional local brands that share our commitment to quality, sustainability, innovation, and authenticity. Through this initiative, we will help emerging suppliers achieve their full potential, giving them the guidance, resources, and opportunities they need to grow with confidence."

The programme features a robust 12-week development phase, backed by Invest NI. This will cover essential business modules including food safety, supply chain management, marketing strategies, financial planning, and e-commerce. Successful applicants will not only receive an initial nine-month listing but also benefit from targeted media coverage, an enhanced digital presence, and invaluable opportunities to showcase their products at key events and through sessions at the state-of-the-art development kitchen at Sysco Belfast.

Gráinne Moody, Director of Food and Drink at Invest NI, added: "We've worked closely with Sysco on this new supplier development programme and are delighted to see it launch. By supporting the workshop, we're helping Sysco champion brilliant local brands, which will undoubtedly boost Northern Ireland's food and drink sector and, ultimately, our economy."

This new programme follows Sysco's recent expansion of its local brand portfolio, which already includes much-loved names like Clandeboye, Yellow Door Bakery, Clearer Water, and Forest Feast. Applications for 'Scale with Sysco' open on February 24, 2026, and will involve a thorough selection process, culminating in a 'Meet the Buyer' event. Up to five deserving suppliers will then be chosen for the listing.

If you're a local food producer in North Belfast or across Northern Ireland looking to take your business to the next level, find out more and apply by visiting www.syscoireland.com.