More than 150 small food companies are to have their products stocked in 221 SuperValu stores as part of the retailer’s Food Academy programme run with Bord Bia and the Local Enterprise Office Network.

Over the past 12 months, hundreds of small food producers have had their products in trials in their local SuperValu stores as part of the programme.

The successful firms are selling diverse food and drink products, including nettle syrup, granola cups, black and white pudding and spices.

SuperValu's trading director Eamon Howell said the fact SuperValu stores were independently owned and operated meant owners could purchase directly from local suppliers.

He said the supermarket chain was working with an additional 250 small food producers, and there would be trials of their products in local stores.