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Achill Island Sea Salt_PDO Badge
  • Branding
  • Sustainability

PDO – Is it Elevating Food and Beverage Brands?

March 19th, 2024

The PDO Advantage: Is it Elevating Food and Beverage Brands?

Great brand helps you to stand out on shelf in the Irish food and beverage retail space. PDO status is showing up more and more, bolstering heritage and differentiating from competitors.

But what is PDO?

Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status identifies products that are produced, processed and prepared in a specific geographical area. The most commonly known example – Champagne, produced, processed and prepared in the specific region of France.

How does it benefit brands? Are there any Irish products we know that have PDO status?
The humble Waterford Blaa gained their PDO status in 2013, over 10 years ago. Most recently? Achill Island Sea Salt have just achieved this badge of honour to attribute to their product. So how can it benefit the brand?

Preserving Heritage and Authenticity

One of the key advantages of the PDO status is not only to certify its geographical origin, but also the unique production methods associated with it. For brands operating in Ireland, this means safeguarding heritage and authenticity. Whatever the product is, the PDO status assures consumers that these products are genuinely Irish, often crafted with time-honoured methods.

Building Trust and Credibility:

Consumers are more discerning about the origin and quality of their food and drink choices, therefore trust is really pertinent for brand success. The PDO designation acts as a kind of stamp of approval. Consumers can be sure the product is not only genuine but also meets the high standards associated with its regional heritage. This trust is invaluable for brands in establishing credibility and long-term relationships with their customers.

International Recognition and Export Opportunities:

The PDO status is not only a badge of honour in Ireland, but can open doors internationally. Irish food and beverage brands can gain a competitive advantage in the global arena. This can lead to increased export opportunities, allowing Irish brands to share their unique offerings with a broader audience. In turn, this contributes to a positive perception of Ireland’s culinary excellence on the world stage.

Promoting Sustainable Practices:

An unassuming advantage of PDO status is not just the protection of the past; it also encourages sustainable practices for the future. By preserving traditional production methods and the use of local ingredients, this status promotes sustainability. Brands that align themselves with these values can appeal to the conscious consumer. PDO status allows brands to cultivate a positive brand image that genuinely reinforces their commitment to responsible practices.

 

For Irish food and beverage brands, the introduction of the PDO status represents a pivotal moment in their journey toward recognition, trust, and success. By embracing and leveraging this designation, brands can not only safeguard their heritage and authenticity but also thrive in an increasingly competitive global market.

Congratulations to Achill Island Sea Salt on the designation!

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