More than 300 grocery industry colleagues have raised a record-breaking £47,891 towards GroceryAid, the charity that supports financial, emotional and practical support to grocery and retail workers in Northern Ireland.
So far this year, the charity has supported 350 colleagues to the value of £198,000, inclusive of the record amount raised at the GroceryAid Grocers Ball in the summer.
The highly anticipated GroceryAid Grocers Ball, held at the Culloden Hotel & Spa, brought together more than 300 grocery industry colleagues, who enjoyed a night of great local food, entertainment, live music and an extensive range of prizes, while raising vital funds to support GroceryAid’s work across the industry.
Organised by key representatives from throughout the sector, the event, now in its 27th year, is recognised as the industry’s premier night.
Desi Derby, Grocers Ball Chair, said “All funds raised from the Grocer’s Ball will directly support GroceryAid in providing year-round services, including financial, emotional and practical support. In 2026, GroceryAid will support over 350 grocery colleagues in Northern Ireland to the value of £198,000 across school essentials, winter heating and cost of living grant programmes, all made possible by the generosity of grocery colleagues at GroceryAid fundraising events such as the Grocers Ball”.
The Grocers Ball wouldn’t be possible without the tremendous support of sponsors, including this year’s title sponsor Freixenet Copestick – available at Drinks Inc.
Brian O’Leary, National Account Manager said, “We’re thrilled to continue our support for such an important event and charity in GroceryAid. The work the charity does to support colleagues across our industry is more vital than ever. As economic challenges persist, events like these remain invaluable. We’re proud this partnership has raised essential funds that directly contribute to supporting thousands of local people every year”.
Gold sponsors included Coca Cola Hellenic, Drinks Inc., GM Marketing, Henderson Group, Hovis, Isle of Man Creamery, Manfreight, Musgrave, Pilgrim Foods, PRM Group, Retail NI, Sainsburys, SHS Group and Tesco.
Following this year’s record-breaking success, a date has already been set for 2027, the event will take place on Friday 4th June at the Culloden Hotel & Spa.
GroceryAid has been providing emotional, practical and financial support for Grocery people since 1857. Colleagues working in any area of the industry, from manufacturing to supermarkets, independent retailers, wholesalers, distribution, sales and all support functions, are supported and encouraged to seek advice and support if needed. Visit groceryaid.org.uk for more information.