Cork dairy snack company secures multi-million contract to supply M&S stores

The product has been developed as a healthy crunchy alternative to traditional snacks like crisps and nuts.

The collaboration has resulted in a significant increase in production volume for Dairy Concepts at its Fermoy manufacturing facility, leading to the hiring of five additional production staff, bringing the total number of employees to 24 at the 10,000 sq ft manufacturing facility.

Dairy Concepts crafts these snacks by combining Irish cheddar with a unique vacuum-cooking process.

These snacks have been developed in such a way as to not require refrigeration or special storage conditions and can be stored at room temperature, remaining fresh for an extended period.

Growth of industry

CEO of the company Tom Brennan said that becoming a supplier for M&S “signifies a significant endorsement of our innovative product development, operational standards, and product quality”. 

“With value-added dairy snack products made from a minimum of 98% cheese, this domestic and export partnership really supports Irish farmers and contributes to the growth of the wider Irish dairy industry,” Mr Brennan added.

Country director for M&S Ireland and Northern Ireland Eddie Murphy said that the retailer is growing its partnerships with Irish suppliers.

“The launch of the innovative M&S Cheese Clouds range marks a real milestone for both companies and shows the potential for more opportunities across our Irish supply chain,” Mr Murphy said.

Dairy Concepts and M&S are planning further expansion in the partnership with plans for new product development, including a new flavour variant and larger pack sizes scheduled for launch in early 2025.

Dairy Concepts’ brands include CheeseO’s baked cheddar cheese snacks, Cáisnua crunchy cheese, and Tapufin Dairy Bars.