Majority of women choose shops where Irish food sold, research claims

ALMOST two-thirds of women prefer to shop insupermarkets that sell Irish brands, according to new research.

The 67% shopping preference of women was revealed in a Love Irish Food research study.

It also showed the impact of buying Irish is well recognised by consumers with 86% of respondents noting “buying Irish” can assist economic recovery.

Additional findings highlighted the deep rooted connection consumers have with Irish brands. Almost three quarters of participants (72%) agreed or strongly agreed that buying Irish products was better for the environment as the product is sourced nationally and reduces pollution from transporting food.

Irish brands support for their local communities was important to almost half of participants (46%). More than two fifths (41%) of those who took part in the study admitted to sending Irish foods to a family member abroad with America (28%), Australia (27%), and Britain (21%) being the most popular destinations.

The top three Irish brands parcelled to loved ones abroad are Tayto crisps (39%), Barry’s Tea (22%) and Cadbury’s chocolate (19%).

Some 84% of respondents agreed on the need for a symbol which clearly indicates which brands are Irish and which are not.

Meanwhile, Love Irish Food (LIF), the new independent body launched three weeks ago by Ireland’s food and drinks industry to promote Irish manufactured brands to consumers,announced yesterday that a further 11 indigenous companies have joined the campaign bringing its membership to 46 leading Irish brands.

LIF chairman, economist Jim Power, said the significant growth in membership in the past few weeks is testament to the firm commitment from the food and drinks industry to creating a sustainable environment and future for the sector.

A public information campaign was also launched yesterday by LIF and will continue through October under the theme One More Makes all the Difference.

This aims to drive recognition of the new LIF symbol and subsequently to achieve a change in consumer thinking and buying patterns.

Research conducted by LIF indicated that 84% of respondents agreed there is a strong need for a symbol that clearly indicates which brands are Irish and which are not.

This research led to the development of the distinctive LIF logo which will be visible in-store and on member brand packaging.