(L-R) Brian McErlain, founder of Bertie’s Bakery, Eugene Wallace, National Account Manager at Allied Bakeries (Sunblest), Gary Martin, Senior National Account Manager at Irwin’s Bakery, Ben McFadden, Bakery Buying Manager at Tesco NI, Kingsley Burrows, National Sales Manager at Genesis Bakery, Timothy Graham, Business Development Manager at Grahams Bakery and Gillian Castles, Account Manager at Holmes Bakery.
Tesco Northern Ireland has unveiled 31 new bakery products from some of the region’s best-loved local suppliers, further strengthening its commitment to supporting homegrown producers and bringing more local flavour to customers’ tables.
The latest expansion marks a major boost for the retailer’s bakery range, building on year-on-year growth of 11% in the local cake category.
Showcasing Northern Ireland’s best bakeries
The new products span a variety of fresh and indulgent options – from traditional rolls and traybakes to innovative desserts – crafted by established Northern Irish bakeries including Irwin’s Bakery in Portadown, Genesis Bakery and Bertie’s Bakery in Magherafelt, Holmes Bakery in Craigavon, Graham’s Bakery in Dromore, and Sunblest in Belfast.
Established in 1912, Irwin’s Bakery continues to blend tradition with innovation, introducing new lines such as Wee Lemon Joeys and Brioche Muffins inspired by Mediterranean flavours.
Genesis Bakery has launched eight new lines as part of a complete range revamp, including its popular Afters collection featuring bite-sized chocolate, jam & coconut, carrot and caramel cakes.
For those craving something sweet with their afternoon tea, Holmes Bakery is rolling out new traybakes including Biscoff Billionaire, Lemon and Orange Crunch, and Milk Chocolate Tiffin, while Bertie’s Bakery offers comforting classics such as Apple Tart and Apple Crumble.
Meanwhile, Graham’s Bakery has introduced its new Pick Me range, featuring Blonde Chocolate & Brown Butter Brookies and Mini Victoria Sponge Cakes, designed as the perfect coffee-break treat.
For a lighter bite, Sunblest has launched locally produced Protein Pancakes – a new 4-pack option that balances flavour and nutrition.
Strengthening local partnerships
Tesco NI says the launch is a celebration of its enduring partnerships with local bakeries, many of which span decades.
Ben McFadden, Bakery Buying Manager at Tesco NI, said:
“Our customers love seeing local favourites on our shelves – and these new lines offer even more choice and quality from right here in Northern Ireland.
“We’re proud to work in partnership with local suppliers to champion their products, support their growth, and bring our customers fresh, homegrown bakes every day.”
(L-R) Ben McFadden, Bakery Buying Manager at Tesco NI and Gary Martin, Senior National Account Manager at Irwin’s Bakery.
Irwin’s Bakery, which has worked with Tesco NI for 28 years, now supplies over 30 products to stores across the region.
Senior National Account Manager Gary Martin said:
“Our partnership has grown to generate more than £4 million in annual sales, with over 10% year-on-year growth.”
At Holmes Bakery, Account Manager Gillian Castles credited Tesco NI’s support for helping expand their reach:
“Tesco NI’s support for local producers has helped us reach more customers across Northern Ireland and expand our range while remaining faithful to our handcrafted traditions.”
(L-R) Ben McFadden, Bakery Buying Manager at Tesco NI and Brian McErlain, founder of Bertie’s Bakery.
Bertie’s Bakery founder Brian McErlain added:
“Tesco NI’s backing has been instrumental in landing exciting new products in store, allowing us to expand production, create jobs, and reach new customers across the region.”
Locally made, locally loved
The new bakery lines are available now in Tesco stores across Northern Ireland, highlighting the retailer’s ongoing investment in regional suppliers and commitment to providing customers with fresh, locally made products.