Stephen Gartland, owner of SPAR Aghagallon, recently hosted pupils from two local primary schools, St Patrick’s Primary and St Mary’s Primary Derrymore, at the local community centre to exhibit the best of Northern Ireland’s local food producers.

Stephen was joined by Lynsey Evans, Commercial Manager of Produce & Horticulture at Henderson Wholesale, to deliver an engaging session, designed to showcase the richness of Northern Ireland’s agri-food industry and to help inspire the next generation about the importance of local food and healthy eating.

Together, they spoke with pupils about where their food comes from, the importance of supporting local farmers and producers, and how making homegrown, healthy choices benefits both our communities and our environment. To bring the message home, each pupil received a selection of fresh, locally sourced fruit and vegetables to enjoy with their families. Stephen also provided the children with pumpkins to decorate to be displayed in his store for Halloween.

Stephen celebrated the 10th anniversary of SPAR Aghagallon with a community fun day in the summer. Shoppers were invited to enjoy sampling of the summer salad and meat ranges and BBQ products, as well as trying their luck at the SPAR Spinner, with multiple prizes won on the day including a gas BBQ, summer hampers and store gift vouchers.

SPAR Aghagallon has long been committed to supporting the local community and championing Northern Ireland’s vibrant food sector, with 75% of fresh foods supplied by Henderson Wholesale to independent SPAR and EUROSPAR retailers across Northern Ireland sourced from local suppliers.

Stephen Gartland commented, “We are incredibly proud of our local suppliers here in Northern Ireland, and we’re passionate about sharing that with our customers, and now with the next generation. Being part of the community, it’s important to have an impact on our shoppers but also on the younger children in our local schools, encouraging them to think about healthy eating and where their food is coming from.”

The event not only celebrated the fresh, local offering available in-store, but also highlighted the value of educating young people on food origins, nutrition, and the importance of buying local.

 

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