American dogs set to feast on Lilywhite chow

NAAS-based Irish Dog Foods has agreed a trial contract with ALDI to supply product to three regions of ALDI's US stores. 

Valued at $400,000, Irish Dog Foods will initially supply three regions of ALDI US stores as part of a product trial starting this month. The company has a rich history with ALDI, having supplied pet care and pet food to ALDI Ireland for almost 20 years. The firm also supply ALDI’s UK and Dutch markets. The value of its UK contract is €30 million.

“We have a long history of success with ALDI and have benefited from their international presence, opening global markets for us and our business,” said Liam Queally, managing director of Irish Dog Foods. “This trial reflects the success of our partnership and the quality products, provenance and service we bring to ALDI and their customers. We look forward to continuing to nurture our partnership with ALDI and our business to meet the needs of our growing customer base.” 

Founded in 1985 and owned by the Arrow Group, Irish Dog Foods employ 370 people across their Kildare headquarters and production facilities in Kilkenny and the UK. The company recently expanded its Kildare facility to create additional production capacity to take on new business including ALDI US. Irish Dog Foods recently acquired South African pet food facility Afrique. The business currently exports its pet food products to over 40 countries, with the UK and US key markets.

“We’re particularly proud of the long-standing partnerships we’ve developed with suppliers such as Irish Dog Foods, neighbours of ours in Naas,” Colin Breslin, managing director of buying and services, ALDI Ireland said. “Opening international markets to them and other Irish suppliers is something we're proud of and is testament to the quality, provenance and success of these Irish businesses who are competing internationally.”