Lidl’s Kickstart programme is back for 2026, offering Irish food and drink producers a unique chance to showcase their products in over 220 Lidl stores across the island of Ireland. Designed to support local businesses, Lidl Kickstart provides a platform for emerging brands to reach thousands of customers and gain invaluable retail experience.
What is Lidl Kickstart?
Kickstart is Lidl’s supplier development initiative aimed at helping small and medium-sized Irish producers grow their business. Successful applicants will see their products featured in Lidl’s special Kickstart promotion, giving them access to a wide retail network and expert guidance.
Key Features of the Kickstart Programme
- Nationwide Reach: Products will be stocked in Lidl stores across Ireland and Northern Ireland.
- Marketing Support: Lidl promotes Kickstart products through advertising, social media, and in-store campaigns.
- Supplier Development: Participants receive guidance on packaging, pricing, and retail readiness.
- Brand Building: Kickstart offers an opportunity to elevate your brand and gain recognition among consumers and retailers.
Important Terms and Conditions
Before applying, producers should note these key requirements:
- Eligibility:
- Applicants must be resident in the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland.
- Must be VAT registered and legally permitted to retail the proposed product.
- Ability to supply a minimum of 200 Lidl stores across the island.
- Applicants must be proficient in basic digital skills (e.g., using web-based platforms).
- Application Timeline:
- Applications open 1 January 2026 and close at 23:59 on 31 January 2026.
- A maximum of five products per applicant can be submitted.
- Selection Process:
- Round 1: Review of application forms by Lidl’s Buying Team.
- Round 2: Shortlisted applicants submit product samples for evaluation.
- Successful applicants will be notified by 6 March 2026.
- Marketing Participation:
- Selected participants must engage in Lidl marketing campaigns and provide product samples for promotional purposes at no cost to Lidl.
- Quality and Compliance:
- All products will undergo risk assessment and must meet Lidl’s quality and production standards.
- Lidl may conduct on-site inspections or quality testing.
Why GS1 Ireland Members Should Apply
GS1 standards are essential for businesses looking to scale. Lidl requires products to carry GS1 barcodes, ensuring seamless integration into retail systems. By applying to Kickstart, GS1 Ireland members can:
- Expand Market Access: Barcoded products are retail-ready, meeting Lidl’s requirements.
- Enhance Consumer Trust: GS1 standards support accurate product identification and data sharing.
- Boost Growth: Exposure through Lidl can lead to increased sales, new partnerships, and long-term business opportunities.
Get Retail-Ready with GS1 Ireland
Lidl Kickstart requires products to meet strict retail standards, including barcoding, data accuracy, and compliance.
GS1 Ireland can help you prepare:
- Get Your Barcodes
Ensure your products carry globally recognised GS1 barcodes for seamless integration into Lidl’s systems. Our quick and easy online service makes it simple to assign GTINs and generate barcodes.
- Verified Product Data
Accurate product information builds trust and meets retailer requirements. Use GS1’s Verified by GS1 service to share trusted data with trading partners.
- Support for Scaling
From packaging guidance to digital link solutions, GS1 Ireland offers tools and expertise to help you meet retailer quality and compliance standards and grow your business.
Ready to apply?
Visit https://www.gs1ie.org to get your barcodes and verify your product data today. Then submit your application for Lidl Kickstart before 31 January 2026.