The Today’s Women in Grocery (TWIG) network has announced the speaker line-up for its 10th annual fundraising
event, taking place on 8th May at the Royal Dublin Convention Centre. The luncheon will see 620 [AC1] people from across Ireland’s grocery and retail sector gather for one of the industry’s most anticipated networking events.
Created by the Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund (IGBF), TWIG was established as a platform to connect and support women working across the grocery sector. The network aims to strengthen professional connections, provide access to leading business voices and encourage greater female participation in industry initiatives, while supporting the IGBF’s charitable work assisting members of the grocery trade facing hardship.
The 2025 fundraiser generated over €100,000, helping the IGBF continue its work supporting colleagues across the grocery and retail sector who have experienced loss or unexpected personal or financial difficulties.
The event will take place under the theme “A Decade of Difference - Past, Progress, Possibility,” featuring a panel discussion with senior industry leaders reflecting on how the role of women in grocery has evolved over the past decade, the challenges and opportunities shaping the sector today and the leadership needed for the years ahead.
This year’s speaker line-up includes:
- Jenny Johnston O’Neill, CEO, Azure Communications
- Jennifer Rock, Founder & CEO, Skingredients
- Lorraine Butler, CEO, UK & Ireland, CPM
- Edel Russell, Insight & Innovation Director, Musgrave Ltd
This year’s event will be emceed by entrepreneur and fashion designer Sonya Lennon, who has been a long-time supporter of the TWIG initiative, having previously hosted the event.
Frances Higgins, Charity Chairperson of the IGBF, said: “Since 2016, the TWIG event has grown into a key moment in the grocery calendar, bringing together women from across the sector while raising vital funds for the Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund. Thanks to the continued support of the industry, we can provide practical assistance to colleagues and families facing difficult circumstances, and we are delighted to bring the event to life once again.”
Mary McBride, Chairperson of TWIG, added: “A decade on from our first luncheon, this is a valuable opportunity to reflect on how our sector has evolved and to share insights into what lies ahead. It’s vital that we continue to create space for open discussion, connection and support across the trade. I’m thrilled with the calibre of speakers joining us this year, with no doubt they will inspire such important conversations.”
Nominations are also now open for the 2026 TWIG Person of the Year award, recognising an individual who embodies the TWIG ethos by supporting and championing women across the grocery sector.
Nominations close on Wednesday, 22nd April, and the winner will be announced at the fundraiser luncheon.
The 2026 TWIG fundraiser is supported by main sponsors Musgrave Ltd, Diageo, CPM Ireland, and Suntory Beverage & Food Ireland.
The event is now sold out, with a waiting list in place for additional places that may become available.
