Page 40 - Bord Bia - Irish Foodservice Directory 2024

Opportunities for Irish food and drink suppliers

Supermac’s has a tradition of working very closely with all their suppliers,
having formed excellent working relationships over the years. Supermac’s
has worked on advertising campaigns alongside local farmers and
producers to promote their support of Irish and local business to the
general public.

There are opportunities for Irish food and drink suppliers for non-core
products. The company recommends potential suppliers visit its sites to
identify opportunities outside of the core range e.g. salads and ice cream.

Purchasing policy and supplier requirements

Supermac’s has a policy of purchasing all of its meat products from
producers on the island of Ireland.

All beef burgers and fresh chicken products are born, reared and butchered
in Ireland.

Supermac’s has built very strong working relationships with its suppliers
since it started in business in 1978. Working relationships have been built
on trust and their suppliers know what standard of hygiene and quality is
expected with some suppliers having worked with the company for almost
40 years.

The main factors influencing decision making are firstly quality, secondly
continuity of supply and thirdly price.
Current suppliers are audited regularly and must comply with strict
accreditation requirements.

Supermac’s operates a Vendor Approval Listing and only suppliers that have
been audited and meet the required standards will be permitted to supply
into the chain. There is no charge for carrying out the audit on vendors.
Third party certification such as BRC or EFSIS is often required.
Purchasing is centralised. There are no set tender dates as Supermac’s has a
close relationship with its existing suppliers and do not tender out supplies,
but welcome approaches from all potential supply partners. Supermac’s
operates a purchase order system and orders are usually placed via email.

The Purchasing Manager makes the purchasing decisions and places the
orders. Supermac’s backhauls from current suppliers as it has its own
transport system.

40