Irish fast food chain Supermac’s is on target to spend upwards of EUR7 million (US$8.24 million) on Irish poultry in 2017.
The decision represents a significant investment in the poultry sector by the company. The good news for Irish chicken farmers is that it is expected that the figures will increase again next year according to the family restaurants group managing director, Pat McDonagh.
“We expect this figure to continue to increase year on year as the popularity of our fresh chicken sandwich and fresh chicken tenders range continues to grow,” McDonagh said. “As part of our commitment to our Fresh Range we only serve 100 percent fresh, never frozen, Irish chicken and beef. We are committed to continuing our ongoing support of Irish farmers and utilizing Irish produce whenever possible. This is a very strong endorsement of the quality of Irish poultry on Irish farms and I am proud to serve it in each of our restaurants,” he said.
The fresh chicken product range in Supermac’s includes the Snack Box and Lunch Box, the Wholemeal Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Chicken Breast Sandwich and the Fresh Chicken Tenders.
“Our chicken sandwiches are the best in the business and a large part of the reason for this is the quality of product our Irish farmers produce for us. There is absolutely no doubt that you can taste the difference. Frozen meat loses moisture and when you lose moisture you lose flavor. That’s why fresh never frozen is so important and why all our Fresh Range is cooked to order,” said McDonaugh.
Company also committed to serving Irish beef
Supermac’s annual commitment to Irish farmers has now reached in excess of EUR20 million (US$23.54 million) per annum. The 5oz burger, made famous by Irish rugby legend Sean O’ Brien, and the seasonal Festive 5oz over the Christmas period were a huge hit with customers. “We only use beef sourced from Irish Farmers,” McDonagh said. “Our 5oz burgers are made from prime cuts of beef and are cooked to order. This means that your burger or grilled chicken does not touch the grill until after you order. It is cooked fresh every time,” he said.
Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) President Joe Healy thanked Supermac’s for its support of Irish beef and poultry. He said, “It is great to see an Irish company sourcing all of their fresh beef and poultry from Irish suppliers and supporting Irish farmers.”
Supermac’s is Ireland’s largest indigenous quick service restaurant chain. The franchise currently has over 100 outlets across country and employs over 2,700 people. Supermac’s also operates the Papa John’s Pizza brand and SuperSubs which provide Supermac’s customers with additional options
