Breaking into the food industry isn’t easy, but some determined Irish entrepreneurs have done it—and now they’re sharing how. If you’re an aspiring food producer, Dublin Food Chain’s upcoming event, Meet the Entrepreneurs Who Beat the Odds, is an unmissable opportunity to hear first-hand from those who have turned their food ideas into thriving businesses.
Taking place on at 2pm on Wednesday, March 5th in Castleknock Hotel, D15, this event will bring together some of Ireland’s most inspiring food entrepreneurs
These Irish producers have all navigated the challenges of launching, scaling, and sustaining their brands. From securing funding to getting stocked on shelves, their journeys offer real-world insights, practical advice, and motivation for anyone looking to break into the industry.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking for that extra push to grow your food business, this event will provide invaluable knowledge, networking opportunities, and a chance to learn from those who’ve successfully made it in the competitive food world.
Ready to take your food business to the next level? Here’s everything you need to know about this must-attend event…
Attendees will hear from two Dubin producers who have beaten the odds to become world class businesses. Stephen Carr from Pizza Sorrento and Ciaran Fitzpatrick from Cookie Dó will share their journeys and tips with the audience.
Laura Harper Trading Director Marks & Spencer will join producers to give her perspective and provide an overview of M&S Ireland.
Event Schedule:
13:45 – 15:00 | Light Lunch & Networking
Enjoy a light lunch while connecting with fellow food entrepreneurs, industry experts, and local business leaders.
13:45 – 15:00 | Producer Mini Showcase
Six Dublin-based food producers (Culinary Microherbs; Treats by Sylvia; Moss Melts Seamoss; Woodfire & Green; Happy Hour Foods; Absolute Nutrition; Garnacha) will showcase their product ranges, offering attendees a chance to taste, discover, and network with innovative brands.
15:00 – 15:15 | Opening & Welcome
Presented by the Local Enterprise Office – setting the stage for an inspiring afternoon.
15:15 – 15:35 | Ciaran Fitzpatrick – Cookie Dó
Ciaran Fitzpatrick, founder of Cookie Dó, will share his journey from a family-run baking business to securing major retail deals with Aldi, Tesco, Dunnes, and Avoca. Learn how Cookie Dó scaled nationally and broke sales records in just a few years.
15:35 – 15:55 | Stephen Carr – Pizza Sorrento
Stephen Carr, co-founder of Pizza Sorrento, will discuss how their journey started with SuperValu’s Food Academy, leading to a €10M supply deal with Aldi. With experience on both sides of the negotiation table as a buyer and seller, Stephen will share insider tips on securing major retail contracts.
15:55 – 16:15 | Laura Harper – M&S Trading Director
Under the theme “The Recipe for Success: Getting Your Product Listed with Marks & Spencer”, Laura Harper will offer valuable insights on retail partnerships, how M&S is transforming its business, and what it takes for Dublin producers to work with them.
16:15 – 16:30 | Q&A Session
Ask your burning questions and get first-hand advice from expert speakers.
Tickets cost just €25 and you can book to secure your place at www.dublinfoodchain.ie/events/meet-the-entrepreneurs-who-beat-the-odds
