LK Content Manager

Social Enterprise NOW Group names Lidl Northern Ireland ‘Academy Partner of the Year’

Leading social enterprise NOW Group has named Lidl Northern Ireland as its ‘Academy Partner of the Year’ in recognition of its work in supporting people with autism and learning difficulties into retail careers.

Just a year after the Belfast-based social enterprise teamed up with Lidl Northern Ireland to launch its pioneering Retail Skills Academy, the first of its kind with a local supermarket retailer, 12 participants have completed the groundbreaking employability programme, with half of graduates already securing permanent employment. Adding to its 1,300-strong regional workforce, Lidl Northern Ireland awarded two graduates with a permanent position at the region’s fastest-growing supermarket retailer.

The fresh partnership between NOW Group and Lidl Northern Ireland was announced last June as part of the retailer’s ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion after previously implementing a number of dedicated in-store customer initiatives including autism-friendly evenings and becoming Northern Ireland’s first JAM Card friendly supermarket in 2021.

NOW Group’s dedicated Skills Academies, launched in 2018, span a variety of sectors including Catering, Hospitality, Tourism, Cleaning, Digital, Warehousing and Business Administration. With the aim of meeting rising demand for jobs in these sectors, NOW Group Academies work to ensure participants have the chance to gain skills and employment, matching training needs to areas of high job opportunities.

Through the Retail Skills Academy, developed and designed by NOW Group in conjunction with Lidl Northern Ireland, students combine 15 weeks of classroom learning, which sees successful candidates graduate with GCSE-equivalent certification OCN NI Level 1 Award in Retail Business, with real world experience through in-store retail placements of up to 40 hours across the retailer’s network of 41 stores in Northern Ireland.

Sean Hanna, Director of Services at NOW Group, said:

“After a fantastic first year working with Lidl Northern Ireland, we’re thrilled to confirm Lidl Northern Ireland as our Academy Partner of the Year 2024. The Retail Skills Academy is a pioneering initiative which supports participants as they gain hands-on experience and learn industry-specific skills, at the same time as encouraging independence, resilience and employability.

“Having partnered previously with Lidl Northern Ireland through our pioneering ‘Just A Minute’ (JAM) Card, which is used by people with learning disabilities and autism to allow others to know in a discreet way that they need some extra patience using shops, services and public transport, we are delighted by the early results, impact and feedback from our combined Skills Academy,” Sean Hanna said.

“As the region’s only certified Top Employer, Lidl Northern Ireland has proven itself through its Retail Skills Academy as a strong strategic partner in helping us deliver this progressive programme as we work to support people with autism and learning difficulties as they make their way into employment. We’d like to congratulate the team on their hard work and huge success in being named our Academy Partner of the Year 2024.”

Ivan Ryan, Lidl Northern Ireland Regional Managing Director, said:

“As a certified Top Employer for the last four years running, accessibility and diversity are key cornerstones of Lidl Northern Ireland’s People Strategy. Our Retail Skills Academy has got off to a great start since our launch in June 2023, and we’re delighted to be named NOW Group’s Academy Partner of the Year.

“Our first 12 participants came through the programme with great results and we’re looking forward to building on our early success with more students in the months and years ahead.

“Lidl Northern Ireland is perfectly positioned to support academy students as they work towards a fulfilling career in the retail industry through best-in-class training and mentorship in an inclusive environment, and we’re looking forward to great things to come as our partnership with NOW Group and the Retail Skills Academy goes from strength to strength.”

Bonnie Shaw, from County Down, who took part in the programme and is currently working as a Customer Assistant in the Lidl Connswater store, said:

“Getting involved in the Retail Skills Academy with support from Lidl Northern Ireland and NOW Group has been a fantastic experience. It’s helped to boost my confidence, develop my skills and encourage me to achieve more. I love coming to work, meeting with colleagues and helping all our local shoppers – the future is bright.”

In 2023, Lidl Northern Ireland was recognised as a Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute for the fourth year in a row. The only retailer in the region to receive the accreditation, Lidl Northern Ireland was recognised for its dedication to a better world of work, exhibited through excellent HR policies and people practices, particularly around diversity and inclusion.

Lidl Northern Ireland is the highest paying supermarket in the region, providing a range of additional benefits that includes paid maternity, paternity and fertility leave, while it was the first major local company to off compassionate leave for miscarriage and early pregnancy loss, as well as providing special support for those impacted by menopause.

For more information on working with Lidl Northern Ireland visit https://jobs.lidl-ni.co.uk/. For more information on the employability and training schemes available with the NOW Group, please visit www.nowgroup.org.

by LK Content Manager

Bradley Art Prize shines a light on Northern Ireland artistic talent as 2024 competition winners are announced

Young artists from Ulster University and Glenola Collegiate in Bangor among winners in the prestigious competition

The winners of the prestigious 2024 Bradley Art Prize have been revealed.

The competition, led by acclaimed Belfast artist Terry Bradley and sponsored by Telecoms and IT solutions provider Radius Connect, is designed to give young creatives a chance to showcase their work alongside some of the most respected names in the local arts sector.

Open to entrants across three age categories from 14 to 18, 19 to 23 and 23 years plus, almost 200 artists entered, with up to four submissions per entry.

Ulster University student Holly Hooks, winner in the 19 – 23 category, took the overall prize while 16-year-old Erin McDaid from Bangor won the 14 – 18 title. Bradley Brimacombe, 25, also from Bangor, took the top spot in the new Over 23 category.

The winners of each category have been chosen by an esteemed panel of judges, including Terry and his wife Ashley Forsythe, Director NI Executive Brussels, Aodhan Connolly, CEO at Titanic Belfast Judith Owens MBE and James Devlin from Radius Connect.

Winners and runners up in the competition, also supported by Bradbury Art, Titanic Belfast and the Northern Ireland Executive Office in Brussels, will have their work displayed at Titanic Belfast alongside Terry’s ‘Dockers & Dolls’ exhibition across the summer and share in a total prize pot worth more than £5,000 in cash and art materials for themselves and their schools and colleges.

Terry said: “We have been blown away once again by the extraordinary calibre of the work presented. The technical ability, creativity and professional approach of the artists who have engaged with the competition has been out of this world, making our job as judges an incredibly tough one. We were really pleased with the launch of our new Over 23s category, which received a strong number of entries.

“And overall we’re thrilled with the impact and interest the Bradley Art Prize has had over the past two years and would like to extend our thanks to everyone involved, including those who entered, as well as the schools and universities which provided support to this extremely capable and talented cohort of young artists.

“I am passionate about supporting up and coming artists in Northern Ireland and am delighted to share their work alongside my own. Congratulations to all who entered.”

Overall winner Holly Hooks, who lives in Belfast, impressed the judges with her piece ‘Colour Beyond The Male Surface. Fellow University of Ulster student Tara Drew, also 19, who lives in Newtownabbey, was named runner-up in the 19 – 23 category for her work ‘Emotions’.

Erin McDaid, 16, who goes to Glenlola Collegiate, Bangor, was named winner of the 14 – 18 group for her piece, ‘Distorted’, with Jenna Ferguson, 17, who attends St Dominic’s Grammar in Belfast, selected as runner up for her work ‘Daydreams’.

Bradley Brimacombe was confirmed as winner in the Over 23 category for his piece ‘Love Me Until I’m Me Again’, with Nichola Bloomfield-Hood, 61, from Newtownabbey, placed as runner-up for ‘Tattoo’.

Five artists have also been shortlisted for a ‘People’s Choice Award’, which will go to a public vote at Titanic Belfast alongside winners and runners up, with visitors invited to choose their favourite to win a cash prize of £250.

These include Sofia Hunter, 18, from Antrim, Joy Mawson, 18, from Banbridge, Zara Craig, 16, from Ballyclare, and Jiale Chen, 17, from Antrim, from the 14 – 18 category, with 56-year-old Patricia Mooney from Belfast, from the Over 23s category.

James Devlin, Head of Enterprise Sales at Radius Connect, which sponsored the Bradley Art Prize competition, said:

“This has been another fantastic year for the Bradley Art Prize, and as sponsors of the competition we are delighted to have been involved in the initiative once again, providing aspiring artists with a platform to showcase their work, and encourage them to pursue a career in the creative industries.

“This exhibition, carefully curated by Terry Bradley and his team, is an amazing opportunity to shine a light on the artistic achievements of our talented young people and give them a taste of what a future in the arts sector could look like. I’d like to extend my congratulations to everyone who took part, and wish them success in the future as their artistic journey continues.”

The 11 artists joined Terry Bradley at Titanic Belfast as he launched his latest exhibition on Wednesday (June 26^th), Dockers & Dolls, with winning, runner-up and shortlisted artwork to be showcased alongside Terry’s pieces throughout the summer.

A further exhibition will follow at the Bradley Gallery in Victoria Square, Belfast, as well as in the Northern Ireland Executive office in Brussels.

The free exhibition opened to the public from Monday 1^st July for two months in the iconic venue’s Andrew’s Gallery. The exhibition includes a full immersive video experience to take visitors inside the mind and art of Terry Bradley while honouring the hard-working men and women who worked in the area’s docks, linen mills and factories. The darkness into light theme represents Terry’s journey with mental health and growing up during The Troubles.

Ends //

by LK Content Manager

Belfast celebrates double win at prestigious micebook awards

Visit Belfast and ICC Belfast have hit the top spot in two major categories at this year’s micebook awards 2024, recognising their commitment to delivering world-class events with excellence, innovation and impact.

Visit Belfast secured the ‘Best Convention Bureau’ title at the annual awards in London for a second consecutive year in an international competition that selects the best in class across the world of conferences and events.

In a major boost for the city, ICC Belfast was also a top winner, securing the ‘Best UK Events Venue’ title, reflecting its team’s approach to delivering an exceptional experience for delegates in world class surroundings.

The Destination Marketing Management Organisation (DMMO) for the Belfast City Region, which marks its 25^th anniversary milestone next year, beat Vienna’s Convention Bureau to win the coveted title that recognises Visit Belfast’s leadership and innovation in supporting outstanding events which provide a clear focus on sustainability, legacy and impact.

ICC Belfast triumphed at the micebook awards, beating ACC Liverpool, Church House Westminster and Farnborough International, to be recognised as the UK’s best events venue.

ICC Belfast has also been shortlisted for ‘Best Convention Centre’ at next month’s Conference & Events Awards 2024, lining up against some of the world’s largest convention centres including ExCel London, ACC Liverpool and ICC Birmingham to take the top prize.

Steve Daniels, Chairman of ICC Belfast, Waterfront Hall and Ulster Hall, said, “As chairman of BWUH Ltd. we are delighted to receive this award that recognises ICC Belfast as a state-of-the-art international conference venue. This further strengthens the position of Belfast as a city that is primed for business events. That message is important as we continue to build on our reputation as a conferencing destination. I’m incredibly proud of the team for their ongoing commitments to our venue. They continue to recognise that our contribution is about more than simply winning awards, but winning for the region, economically, socially and culturally.”

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Cllr Micky Murray, welcomed the latest awards:

“Tourism is a key pillar in Belfast’s economic development and business tourism is a vital, growing area which delivers millions of pounds to the local and regional economy and directly supports a vibrant hospitality sector and thousands of jobs,” he said.

“International awards are important to our city’s ability to sell itself, as well as an opportunity to highlight our credentials in delivering excellence, driving innovation and becoming more sustainable. I’m delighted that Visit Belfast and ICC Belfast have proven their ability to lead from the front on a global stage yet again. Congratulations to everyone involved.”

Belfast’s profile as a leading international conference destination has grown dramatically in recent years.

Last year, Belfast was officially named as the world’s best conference and events destination at the annual C&IT Awards gala in London for the fifth time in six years, securing a record-breaking position that underlines the city’s strengths as a major international draw for business delegates and event organisers.

C&IT’s Best Conference Destination 2023 award recognised Visit Belfast and the city’s tourism industry for its consistent, collaborative efforts to meet and exceed the expectations of conference and event organisers to deliver a world class experience for thousands of delegates every year while ICC’s ‘Best Venue - UK’ award by C&IT recognised its contribution to the city’s thriving business conference sector as well as how the team has successfully delivered on its values as a venue that celebrates diversity and champions inclusivity.

Visit Belfast was also awarded ‘UK Best Destination Team of the Year’ at the Meetings Industry Association (MIA) Awards 2023, securing the top industry title in a highly competitive shortlist that included Conference Leeds, Meet in Wales and Newcastle Gateshead Convention Bureau.

Rachael McGuickin, Director of Business Development, Sustainability and Transformation at Visit Belfast, said:

“Business tourism generates £30 million for our local economy every year and represents a significant, growing part of the city’s vibrant tourism economy that directly supports a range of venues, hotels, bars, restaurants and transport providers across the supply chain. They also provide knowledge, wealth and connections to support the development of our regional economy and underpin Belfast’s reputation as a leading international hub for innovation, academic excellence and business success.

“Industry recognition for our success is important – it not only rewards the collective efforts made by our teams but assists in marketing ourselves to win new business and achieve further growth.”

A new Integrated Strategy for Business Events in Northern Ireland was launched in March 2022 which seeks to double the number of international conferences hosted annually and attract three times the number of delegates from the UK and Ireland by 2030.

John McGrillen, Chief Executive of Tourism NI, said:

“I would like to congratulate both Visit Belfast and ICC Belfast on their success at the recent micebook Awards.

“This is a recognition of what Belfast has to offer as an outstanding, unique and authentic destination for business meetings and events.

“Business events don’t only contribute to the city’s visitor economy, they also support knowledge exchange, foreign direct investment and bring social benefit to our local communities.

“These awards will no doubt ensure that Belfast and the wider region will continue to be a destination of choice for business events in the future.”

Established in 1999 as the Belfast Visitor and Convention Bureau (BVCB), Visit Belfast is a not-for-profit public, private and community partnership focused on driving city and regional tourism growth through business events, leisure breaks and cruise.

ICC Belfast is Northern Ireland's only purpose-built international convention centre boasting over two decades of experience in delivering world-class events, offering 7000m² of flexible space for conferences and events catering for up to 5,000 delegates.

ENDS…//

by LK Content Manager

Lidl Northern Ireland gives a £2m ‘Kickstart’ to local producers as fresh batch of suppliers are picked for development programme

13 artisan suppliers picked for this year’s Kickstart Supplier Development Programme which will showcase 33 new products instore this September

Lidl Northern Ireland is set to give a ‘Kickstart’ to a new batch of 13 local producers from across the region who successfully earned a place on the retailer’s coveted Kickstart Supplier Development Programme – an initiative that the retailer has invested more than £2 million in to support 29 local agri-food producers and facilitate export of home-grown produce through Lidl’s international store network, boosting local businesses.

Following a competitive Dragon’s Den style pitch process to find this year’s most innovative products, 13 suppliers across five counties were handpicked for the programme after an intensive application process which saw producers put through their paces with a business pitch to Lidl’s buying team and a taste test to select the best in category.

Successful producers will now see their artisan offerings, spanning 33 new products, on sale on Lidl’s shelves across its 220 stores across the island of Ireland from September 19th for a limited time, while stocks last.

From delicious overnight oats to farm shop meals and mouth-watering hot sauces, this year’s assortment will have something for everyone, with a focus on protein packed products and showcasing the fruits of Northern Ireland’s apple orchards, with cider, gin and spiced apple punch all in this year’s mix.

Now in its seventh year, Lidl Northern Ireland’s Kickstart programme is backed by the Northern Ireland Food & Drink Association (NIFDA) and aims to support small and medium-sized local producers to boost their brand, enhance their supply and reach new customer audiences.

Before the products hit the shelves, this six-month development programme offers suppliers dedicated business support from Lidl Northern Ireland’s in-house experts, advancing their product, brand and business with practical guidance on how to scale production, drive production efficiency, as well as product development and packaging support, allowing them to optimise on-shelf opportunities in the Autumn and scale for success.

Since launching the programme in the region in 2018, Lidl Northern Ireland has showcased over 50 innovative home-grown products, offering small and medium sized producers the opportunity to reach over 2 million weekly Lidl customers across the island of Ireland and get a foot up in breaking into the competitive supermarket retail sector.

Kate O’Driscoll, Supplier Development Manager at Lidl Ireland, said:

“Northern Ireland is a region famed for its food and drink and every year I’m impressed by the innovation, quality and craftsmanship that suppliers clearly pour into their products. The standard is always incredibly high and this year was no exception.

After a competitive application process, I’m delighted to add 13 local suppliers to our Kickstart programme this year and bring 33 new, locally made products to shoppers across the region.

What makes Lidl Northern Ireland’s Kickstart programme so impactful is that we can immediately facilitate export opportunities for all successful suppliers that make it onto the programme. Not only do they have the opportunity to sell their products locally within our regional network of 41 stores, but also within our 179 stores located in the Republic of Ireland, reaching more than 2 million weekly shoppers which is a huge boost for small businesses.

We’ve also worked with Kickstart suppliers to further grow their reach through our wider store network, including supplying our Lidl GB stores with Hellbent’s deliciously tasty Shakalaka Boerewors, bringing a taste of home to even more audiences.

As a retailer committed to sourcing locally and supporting our agri-food industry, we are proud to champion quality products at great value, delivering on our ‘Big on Quality, Lidl on Price’ promise for our customers.”

This year’s intake will see products from Bertie’s Bakery, Blackfire Food, Cloughbane Farm Foods, Mrs K Global, Green Fingers Family, Lecale Harvest, Long Meadow Cider, Rosie’s Bakes, SLICED, Armagh Cider Company, Strangford Coffee Roastery, Sweet Robyn’s and Woodlab Distillery hit Lidl Northern Ireland stores this autumn.

Michael Bell, Executive Director, Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association (NIFDA) said:

“We are delighted to team up with Lidl Northern Ireland to launch its successful Kickstart programme, and to welcome 13 incredible producers from Northern Ireland on board as they embrace this fantastic opportunity to promote their products.

“Securing a place on the programme is a huge achievement for local SME producers, often providing them with a game-changing break into the competitive grocery market along with ongoing business support as they work to fulfill their potential.

“Food and drink is Northern Ireland’s largest manufacturing sector, contributing almost £6 billion in value to the region and accounting for more than 20% of total manufacturing employment.  It’s a huge driver of economic growth and further underscores the need for initiatives such as Lidl Northern Ireland’s Kickstart programme to further grow our agri-food industry and cultivate home-grown suppliers.”

The Lidl Kickstart Supplier Development Programme is just one of the many ways in which the retailer supports the local economy.

In 2023, Lidl Northern Ireland significantly boosted the local agri-food industry, procuring £455 million across the region, representing a 30% rise, year on year. Of this, 80% percent of the goods are shipped outside Northern Ireland, using Lidl’s expansive international store network.

As the retailer marked its 25^th anniversary in the region last month, a major economic report revealed that it contributed a record £360 million into the local economy in 2023 – doubling its annual economic contribution over the past five years – and supported almost 7,000 jobs right across the region.

For more information on the Kickstart Supplier Development Programme, visit lidl-ni.co.uk/kickstart

by LK Content Manager

Galgorm invests £3 million to add new Forest Dens to luxury accommodation collection

Northern Ireland’s premiere luxury hotel, Galgorm has added a stunning new range of accommodation to its collection, with a £3 million investment.

Having already invested £60 million since 2010, Galgorm secured its position among the world’s premier tourism destinations in 2021 when it announced a further £30 million investment to expand and enhance its resort and spa facilities by 2027.

The new Forest Dens represent £3 million of that investment phase and are the first element of the ‘Forest Garden’ at Galgorm. The expansion to the Thermal Spa Village is due to follow in summer 2025, complete with forest walks, wood-fired sauna, hot tubs and a rope bridge connecting the Thermal Spa Village on both sides of the river.

Colin Johnston, Managing Director at Galgorm, stated: “Our commitment to maintaining Galgorm’s standing as a world-class, award-winning tourism destination has driven us to invest and innovate continually over the last number of years. This latest £3 million investment is a testament to our dedication to offering premium and authentic experiences to our guests.

“The introduction of the Forest Dens marks a unique addition to our accommodation portfolio, providing guests with an exceptional opportunity to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the luxury and tranquillity that Galgorm is renowned for.

“With further substantial investments on the horizon, guests can look forward to even more exciting developments, including the expansion of our Thermal Spa Village next summer.”

The fabulous new ‘Forest Dens’ are tucked away beyond the river Maine in the peaceful heart of Galgorm Wood, each one complete with a beautifully bohemian backyard for the chance to get back to nature and soak up some serious tranquility.

Guests will be invited to relax in their own private sauna, unwind with a wood-fired bath and freshen up in the outdoor shower for a truly rejuvenating break from the bustle.

Other features include a stylish indoor kitchenette, outdoor seating with heating, BBQ facilities and a fire pit.

Where earthy nature meets that famous Galgorm luxury, the new Forest Dens, set within 40-acres of private forest, are the latest addition to the resort’s exquisite accommodation offering which includes 125 luxurious guestrooms, 41 cottage suites, 16 Shepherd’s Huts, six log cabins and four exclusive residences.

Suitable for two guests, with one double bed, ensuite with shower and Galgorm Cora amenities, a Forest Den stay includes access to the spectacular Thermal Spa Village from check-in to check-out, helping to bring guests’ sense of Zen to the next level as they embrace true comfort and explore the great outdoors in the Galgorm changing robes and sliders.

All of Galgorm’s lodging accommodation is dog friendly, so guests are also invited to bring their pooches along for a visit.

Just 30 minutes from Belfast, and two and a half hours from Dublin, Galgorm is set within 450 acres of parkland next to the river Maine in the heart of Co Antrim.

The resort was named Best Destination Spa 2024 in the prestigious Conde Nast Johansens Awards, and won six awards at the 2023 World Luxury Awards, including Global Award Winner for Best Luxury Spa Resort.

Forest Dens are now available to book with an overnight stay with Bed & Breakfast available for £270 To find out more, visit https://www.galgorm.com/forest-dens.html.

by LK Content Manager

Visit Belfast unveils ambitious ‘New Horizons’ plan to accelerate city region tourism growth

New three-year strategy targets £424m economic boost that puts Belfast’s vibrant neighbourhoods in the frame to expand city’s wide tourism appeal

Visit Belfast has launched an ambitious new three-year strategy for tourism growth with plans to strengthen and elevate the appeal of the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods to drive new growth and fresh exploration.

Launching its new strategy, the Belfast City Region’s official destination marketing and management organisation said it plans to further strengthen the city’s tourism economy by 20 percent over the next three years, delivering a cumulative economic boost of £424 million by 2027 from its combined sales, marketing and visitor servicing activity.

Targeting an annual growth rate of 6.25 percent, Visit Belfast expects to deliver £133 million to the economy this year (2024-25), up from £125 million the year before and increasing to an annual return of £150 million for the Belfast City region in 2026-27.

Belfast’s visitor economy has enjoyed continuous growth and improvement since Covid-19, with Visit Belfast’s three-year Rebuilding City Tourism strategy acting as a driver in rebooting the tourism sector and returning tourism’s economic impact to pre-pandemic levels.

Visit Belfast Chair, Marie-Thérèse McGivern, said:

“Our New Horizons strategy builds on the significant progress to date and supports the continued strengthening or investment strategy of Belfast as a thriving, competitive visitor destination.

The successful delivery of our post-Covid Rebuilding City Tourism 2021-24 strategy has ensured that the city’s visitor economy has re-emerged stronger and more dynamic, innovative and competitive in a market that has been characterised by strong headwinds and challenging trading conditions.”

Its new strategy for 2024-2027, New Horizons for the Belfast City Region, sets ambitious plans and targets for sustainable tourism growth.

Shining a bigger spotlight on Belfast’s neighbourhood areas which offer a rich and diverse culture, history and heritage filled with authentic and unique experiences, Visit Belfast said it will boost their profile locally, nationally and internationally to enhance the city’s overall destination appeal – and build on the strong growth achieved to date in leisure, business and cruise tourism.

“The targets are bold and ambitious,” Marie-Thérèse said. “Together with Belfast City Council and key partners, we’re committed to increasing the benefits of tourism across our city and wider region including neighbourhoods in a responsible, sustainable way that enhances the visitor experience while working well for the people of Belfast.”

Visit Belfast’s most recent strategy, delivering for a post-Covid era – Rebuilding City Tourism 2021-24 delivered an economic return of £319 million for the city, powered by strong growth in leisure, business and cruise tourism, with room occupancy rates exceeding 84 percent at weekend (and 80 percent midweek), rising footfall and greater consumer spend.

The new 2024-27 economic target for of £424 million represents an increase of almost one third (32.9 percent).

The detailed strategy and plans, which following extensive consultation, were developed with the support of TOPOSOPHY, one of Europe’s leading placemaking and marketing agencies, were presented to key stakeholders and partners at a major event at the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park – located in just one of the city’s many neighbourhood areas earmarked for new growth potential.

This year, in 2024/25, Visit Belfast is targeting 780,000 visitors, 445,000 bed nights and 766,000 tourist enquiries, while driving sustainable best practice across the sector.

Gerry Lennon, Chief Executive, Visit Belfast, said:

“The aim of our new strategy is to spread the tourism benefits right across the Belfast City region, helping to sustain many more businesses and jobs and building new connections with visitors.

Working closely with our key stakeholders and all our partners, by enhancing the visitor experience and inspiring visitors to do more, spend more and stay longer, we aim to drive new growth and value for the economy.

“Though cost issues and the challenging trading environment persist, Belfast has continued to deliver high levels of visitor satisfaction, establishing itself as an attractive city break, business and cruise destination, the outlook is positive in our commitment to maximising tourism’s potential for the benefit of the entire city and region.”

John McGrillen, Chief Executive, Tourism Northern Ireland, said:

“Recognising and positively promoting our unique and competitive strengths as a compelling destination is vital in promoting our destination appeal to visitors around the world, to driving growth and to delivering economic impact.

Tourism Northern Ireland will continue to work with Visit Belfast and all our partners to ensure that we maximise our tourism potential, helping to position the region internationally as an attractive place to visit, making our visitors feel welcome while also helping to make the lives better for all our citizens.”

With over 330,000 cruise passengers visiting all parts of Northern Ireland, over six million air passengers across the two main airports, 2.1 million ferry passengers and the opening of the new Belfast Grand Central Station later this year, one of the largest transport hubs in Europe which will cater for up to 20 million passenger journeys annually, Belfast plays an important role as the gateway city to the whole of the region.

Belfast accounts for around 32% of Northern Ireland’s tourism nights and 40 percent of all tourism spending in Northern Ireland.

by LK Content Manager

New report reveals Lidl Northern Ireland boosted local economy by a record £360m in 2023 as retailer marks 25 years in region

Northern Ireland’s fastest growing supermarket retailer announces investment of £150 million over next three years in expanding and upgrading its regional store network

• £360m GVA generated annually with at least £10 million generated in every council area.
• 6,900 jobs supported across the region including almost 1,300 direct employees.
• Almost a third of workforce aged 24 or under compared to NI average of just 12%.
• Half-a-billion pounds spent on local agri-food produce and 52 suppliers supported to export more than £400m.
• £110m contributed in tax revenues, including direct contribution of £50m.

Lidl Northern Ireland pumped a record £360 million into the local economy in 2023 – doubling its annual economic contribution over the past five years – and supported almost 7,000 jobs right across the region, a new report revealed today.

The findings were published in a specially commissioned report by Oxford Economics and Lidl Northern Ireland to directly examine the retailer’s growing impact and capture its value to the local economy as it marks 25 years since opening its first store in Northern Ireland in May 1999 in Cookstown, Co Tyrone.

As part of its milestone celebrations, the retailer today announced a further investment of £150 million into expanding its presence across new towns and cities within the region and upgrading and revitalising its existing store network over the next three years.

The major impact report also found that Lidl Northern Ireland’s total GVA contribution from its store-based activity boosted the economy by £120 million – up 52 percent from 2018 or an average growth of nine percent annually.

For every £1 generated from its store network, an estimated additional £1.20 is supported through this strong multiplier effect, ensuring significant GVA impacts are retained within the Northern Ireland economy.

Over the past decade, turnover at the company has increased at an annual average rate of 11 per cent, reaching a record £492 million in 2023/24.

J.P. Scally, Chief Executive Officer Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland said:

“As we mark 25 years of Lidl Northern Ireland, we’re proud to share the findings of this latest economic impact report which not only affirms our position as a leading retailer and employer, but which cements our commitment to delivering for everyone in the region.

Since day one, our aim has always been to offer consumers the very best quality produce at market leading value whilst operating sustainably and delivering tangible impacts for the communities which we serve.

Today, we can clearly see the fruits of our labour and I’m very proud of the significant impacts we have delivered for the wider Northern Ireland economy and, importantly, our customers who continue to vote with their feet and choose Lidl Northern Ireland.

With consistent growth propelling us to a current market share of 9.1 percent, we’ve enjoyed phenomenal success and that’s down to the hard work and dedication of our fantastic employees across the region, as well as our incredible Northern Irish suppliers who have grown with us and continue to champion the highest quality produce.” 

Other key findings in the report measured Lidl Northern Ireland’s impacts across its people and local suppliers.

Now among the region’s largest employers, Lidl Northern Ireland sustained 6,900 jobs and directly employed almost 1,300 people in 2023 – up around 50 percent in the past five years - with Derry City & Strabane, Lisburn & Castlereagh City and Newry, Mourne & Down council areas benefitting most from an expanded workforce.

Nearly a third of Lidl Northern Ireland’s workforce was aged 24 or under compared to the national average of just 12 percent, whilst it also saw an increase in number of employees aged 45 or over – growing from 9 percent of its total workforce in 2018 to 14 percent last year, underscoring Lidl’s commitment to developing a diverse, and multi-skilled team. Additionally, almost a quarter of Lidl Northern Ireland employees live in deprived area for education, skills and training or employment.

The retailer paid in excess of £30 million in wages in 2023 and invested around £200,000 and 11,000 hours in employee training and development, including launching a brand-new retail skills programme with NOW Group to provide people living with autism or learning difficulties experience in retail and a pathway to employment in the sector.

As a major supporter of the agri-food industry, Lidl Northern Ireland significantly boosted its impact, procuring almost half a billion pounds (£498 million) across the region, representing a rise of 36 per cent since 2018. Of this, 80 percent of the goods are shipped outside Northern Ireland, supporting the export efforts of more than 50 local suppliers.

Every council area in the region directly benefitted from its purchasing power, with agri-food producers in the Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon, Mid & East Antrim and Fermanagh & Omagh council areas being the largest beneficiaries.

The report’s author Neil McCullough, Associate Director, Oxford Economics said:

“Lidl Northern Ireland continues to trailblaze the local supermarket retail sector and this report clearly demonstrates the impressive strides the retailer has taken particularly in the last five years – significantly growing its economic contribution and dramatically growing its workforce. It’s clear to see that Lidl Northern Ireland’s proposition resonates locally and its remarkable growth will solidify its position as a leading local retailer for many years to come.”

Over the last quarter century, Lidl Northern Ireland has grown exponentially to become a significant player, capturing almost a tenth of the local grocery market and welcoming over half a million shoppers every week, with its high-quality, low-price brand proposition continuing to resonate locally.

Since 2018, the retailer has been named the region’s fastest growing supermarket retailer, with 41 stores across every county and a Regional Distribution Centre in Nutts Corner, County Antrim.

With longstanding ambitions to reach 50 stores by the end of the decade, Lidl Northern Ireland today confirmed a fresh investment of £150 million into expanding its presence across new towns and cities within the region and upgrading and revitalising its existing store network.

Of this landmark investment, over £2.5 million will be ringfenced to deliver a major transformational project to install modern shelving which will significantly increase shelf space to facilitate new product lines, offering customers even more choice at great quality and value.

Ivan Ryan, Regional Managing Director, Lidl Northern Ireland added:

“Lidl has come a long way since our first outlet in Northern Ireland opened in 1999. Throughout the past quarter of a century, it has been a sustained story of growth, and we have no plans to stand still.

As we look to the next 25 years, we’re delighted to announce a new investment of £150 million into further expanding our presence in the region, creating employment, boosting the economy and opening up access to our quality products at low prices for even more shoppers across the region.”

As part of this investment, Lidl Northern Ireland will open a refurbished and upgraded new store at its existing Cookstown location, 25 years after the doors first opened to the island of Ireland’s first ever Lidl supermarket.

The retailer is also progressing construction plans for a new flagship store at Boucher Road, the first in South Belfast, as well as a newly developed retail park at Carryduff. Plans have also been submitted to develop new stores at Bangor, Dungannon, Craigavon and Coleraine.

At end of 2023, Lidl Northern Ireland held a 9.2 percent market share and enjoyed the strongest growth amongst all retailers, up 22.9 percent year-on-year, according to retail information analysts Kantar.

by LK Content Manager

Galgorm partners with Natural Spa Factory to unveil the essence of luxury with exclusive Cora product range

Galgorm, Northern Ireland’s luxury, premier hotel renowned for its immersive experiences, has partnered with Natural Spa Factory to introduce the bespoke Cora Collection—an exclusive skin and hair brand featuring shampoo, conditioner, hand wash, hand lotion, and body wash.

Aligning with Galgorm’s ethos, the Cora brand captures the spirit of the resort’s surroundings encapsulating the natural beauty of the 450 acres of lush parklands. Nestled beside the majestic River Maine, the resort draws inspiration from the rhythmic flow of the water, and it is this inspiration that has given birth to the Cora product range.

Cora, the Irish word for weir, encapsulates the essence of the River Maine weaving a narrative that connects to the heart of Galgorm’s surroundings. The new brand encompasses the river, dancing over the weir with grace and power, embodying the dynamic harmony of nature. This energy is harnessed in each bottle of Cora, bringing the purity of the river straight to the bespoke range of exclusive products.

Designed with meticulous care, this product range is tailored for the flagship Galgorm and all properties within The Collection, including The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat in Templepatrick and The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn. It will also be available in the facilities in Galgorm Collection’s Belfast city centre restaurants Fratelli and Parisien.

In perfect harmony with a promise to natural, eco-conscious, and luxurious experiences, Natural Spa Factory is an independent business nestled amid the breathtaking beauty of Somerset and deeply woven into a tapestry of cultural and natural richness. Both Galgorm and Natural Spa Factory commitments to excellence are reflected in the creation of Cora, which has been exclusively designed to cater to the unique needs of Galgorm’s guests and visitors.

The Cora Collection is vegan-friendly and devoid of harmful chemicals, making it an eco-conscious choice for guests. From the captivating fragrance of botanical wonders to the inclusion of skin-loving ingredients like Meadowfoam Seed Oil, and Shea Butter, Cora provides a sensory journey for both the skin and hair.  What sets Cora apart is its universal fragrance—a harmonious blend of citrus fruit.

Tara Moore, Head of Spa Operations emphasising the significance of this collaboration, stated:

"Our partnership with Natural Spa Factory is a commitment to responsible luxury. Aligned with our sustainability ethos, Cora's cruelty-free formulations embrace bio-based surfactants, upcycled ingredients, and natural antioxidants. Cora not only revitalises one’s body and soul but also pays homage to the well-being of our planet.”

Galgorm Collection is committed to being fully carbon neutral by 2030, pledging to be the first premier hospitality group on the island of Ireland to go fully green. A refill system containing Cora products will replace individual mini toiletries in all hotel rooms and suites across The Collection, significantly reducing plastic waste.

Galgorm Collection is a major employer in the region and has a workforce of over 1,000 staff and in 2023, it also became the first hospitality group on the island of Ireland to achieve official ‘Great Place to Work’ certification based on exceptional employee experience.

Cora is featured in guestrooms, spas, and bathrooms throughout The Collection, allowing guests to immerse themselves in luxury regardless of the property. For those seeking to extend the experience beyond their stay, the Cora products are also available for purchase at Galgorm's boutique and available to purchase online at Galgorm.com.

by LK Content Manager

Lidl Northern Ireland raises £1M for NSPCC

Lidl Northern Ireland and NSPCC celebrate record fundraising partnership

Lidl Northern Ireland and NSPCC Northern Ireland have celebrated a successful seven-year partnership in which the region’s fastest-growing retailer has helped to raise a record £1M, to help keep children safe across Northern Ireland.

NSPCC was chosen by Lidl NI as its preferred charity partner in 2017 for an initial three-year period but this was extended in 2020, and again in 2022 due to its unprecedented success.

The groundbreaking collaboration has helped to make a significant difference to the lives of countless children through a range of activities and initiatives driven by Lidl Northern Ireland employees across its 41 stores and supported locally by Lidl’s valued customers.

The milestone fundraising achievement was marked at a celebratory event held this week at the Kingfisher Country Estate in County Antrim and was attended by representatives from Lidl and NSPCC, partners and supporters.

Hosted by well-known Q Radio presenter, DJ and charity supporter Ibe Sesay, the event recapped on the outstanding success of the partnership and outlined key impacts delivered since it was established in 2017 – including how money raised by Lidl Northern Ireland and its customers helps to support NSPCC’s Childline service which answers a call from a child every 25 seconds.

Ivan Ryan, Regional Managing Director, Lidl Northern Ireland said,

“Choosing the right charity partner matters and we’ve always been incredibly inspired by the work of the NSPCC. Throughout this past seven years, our local team and customers have been passionately dedicated to helping NSPCC provide the vital support needed to keep children safe so that they can grow up healthy and thrive.

Together, we have been able to achieve remarkable outcomes over the course of this partnership and support vital services within our local communities where we live and work. Across 41 stores we have hosted everything from spinathons to superhero dress-up days and of course our annual fundraising events as part of our flagship Trolley Dash campaign.

While we're sad to see this partnership come to an end, we are so proud of the impact we've made together to help and support the children and families in need across the region."

Funds raised through the partnership have contributed to the running of NSPCC NI’s Belfast and Foyle Childline bases; it has supported the training of practitioners at the NSPCC’s two Service Centres in Northern Ireland and supported NSPCC Northern Ireland’s flagship Speak Out Stay Safe Schools programme – one of the most highly demanded initiatives aimed at raising awareness amongst children of their right to be safe from abuse and neglect. Speak Out Stay Safe was delivered to 189 schools across the region, reaching over 45,000 local children.

Lidl’s annual celebrity-led Trolley Dash campaign was a big winner for the charity, with thousands of customers across the region taking part each year to be in with the chance of winning a supermarket sweep-style dash around their local store to grab as much of their Christmas shopping as possible in two minutes. Over the course of the partnership, the initiative raised more than £640,000 for the charity.

Lidl Northern Ireland also supported the NSPCC’s annual Childhood Day initiative, hosting a special in-store Superhero Day where staff and shoppers were encouraged to don their favourite superhero costume to raise vital funds. Over the course of the partnership, this annual campaign raised more than £40,000 for NSPCC. It also teamed up with a local couple in Derry-Londonderry to help raise NSPCC funds in a Christmas Lights for Charity campaign while in Newtownards, a pop-up, fun-filled Lidl Elf Factory helped to power resources.

From child book days to seasonal charity flower bouquets, customers right across Northern Ireland rose to the challenge to deliver spectacular results.

Lidl Northern Ireland is deeply committed to supporting its local communities and as part of its wider sustainability objectives, choosing a charity partner plays a central role in that commitment.

Stefani Mearns, Fundraising Manager NSPCC Northern Ireland, commented

"On behalf of everyone at NSPCC Northern Ireland, I would like to thank Lidl Northern Ireland for its continued support throughout the past seven years. We are forever grateful for the unwavering support and commitment of its employees and customers throughout the course of our partnership.

“Their dedication to our cause has been groundbreaking for our charity – it has and will continue to go a long way in helping to make an enormous difference to the children and families of Northern Ireland.

“The NSPCC is here to support all children who need to make use of our specialist services - or simply, someone to talk to.  Over the past seven years, Lidl Northern Ireland has helped to make this possible.”

by LK Content Manager