Aramark Ireland, a leading integrated provider of facilities management, property, food services, recently hosted its annual Supplier Showcase, bringing together 50 innovative Irish SMEs with senior Aramark operators and business leaders from across its operations nationwide.
The Supplier Showcase gives Irish businesses a valuable opportunity to present new products directly to decision-makers, helping SMEs secure contracts and expand their operations. Aramark’s annual spend of over €200 million with Irish suppliers and business partners supports local employment, drives innovation, and encourages sustainable business practices across the country.
Amongst the 50 suppliers featured at this year’s showcase included Positive Carbon, Vegetarian Express, Shoes for Crews, Around Noon, Panda, Italicatessen, Johnston Shop Fitters and Synergy Innovations. Products and services presented ranged from AI-powered food waste management systems and sustainable packaging solutions to plant-based food alternatives and eco-friendly technologies.
Kate Barlow of Positive Carbon, a company specialising in reducing commercial kitchen food waste through AI technology, explained the significance of participation: “Aramark’s Suppliers Showcase allows SMEs to demonstrate exactly how our products meet real industry needs. For businesses like ours, it's a rare chance to translate innovation directly into new contracts and lasting partnerships.”
Stephen Brennan, Supply Chain Director at Aramark Ireland, highlighted the broader implications of the showcase: "Our annual Supplier Showcase isn’t just about networking, it's strategically important for Ireland’s economic resilience and sustainability goals. By channelling over €200 million annually into Irish SMEs, we're actively investing in local job creation, fostering regional economic stability, and enabling innovative businesses to thrive. This approach strengthens our service offering and delivers tangible, sustainable benefits to both our clients and communities."
