In a significant move to boost Irish businesses in the US, Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board, has announced the appointment of Daragh Flanagan, a native of Bettystown, Co. Meath, as the new Drinks Market Specialist for North America. This strategic decision underscores the board’s commitment to enhancing the presence and success of Irish brewing and distilling companies in the lucrative US market.
A Boost For Irish Drink Exports
Irish drink exports to the US, already valued at a substantial €684 million in 2023, account for a whopping 40% of the total Irish drink export value. Flanagan’s role will be pivotal in connecting Irish companies with key customers across North America, thereby supporting the continued growth of this vibrant industry. With a rich background that includes a stint in the Jameson graduate programme and a role as a luxury spirits executive for Diageo Ireland, Flanagan brings a wealth of experience and industry insight to his new position.
Expansion Across The Board
Bord Bia’s strategic appointments don’t stop with the drinks sector. The food board has also welcomed Adam Hannon into the fold, assigning him the newly minted role of Meat and Foodservice Market Specialist. Tasked with overseeing the foodservice channel across all product categories, Hannon will play a critical role in aiding Irish food companies in their quest to conquer the North American market.
Housed at Bord Bia’s New York office, these new recruits are integral to Bord Bia’s broader strategy of providing enhanced support to Irish companies already operating within the US. Additionally, they aim to pave new routes to market for enterprises looking to tap into North America’s opportunities.
Government Backing For An Expanding Global Presence
The appointments have received backing from the highest levels, with Minister Pippa Hackett, leading a Government Trade Mission to the US, lauding the expansion of “Team Ireland” in North America. Hackett’s endorsement highlights the national significance of these roles in enhancing Ireland’s export prowess.
Henry Horkan, Bord Bia’s North America Manager, expressed his satisfaction with the new appointments. He emphasized their crucial role in supporting the drink, foodservice, and meat sectors. With Irish food and drink exports to the US already valued at €1.5 billion last year, the board views these appointments as a timely expansion of Irish companies’ capabilities in accessing and thriving within the lucrative American market.
In conclusion, Bord Bia’s strategic move to bolster its presence in the US by appointing industry specialists like Daragh Flanagan and Adam Hannon is a clear signal of its commitment to Irish businesses. As these professionals begin their roles, the Irish food and drink sectors look forward to enhanced growth and success in the US market, driven by expertise, strategic networking, and dedicated support from the heart of New York.