A group of young Irish sheep farmers recently travelled to France as part of Kepak’s Young Sheep Farmer Forum, gaining first-hand insights into European market dynamics, innovation in meat processing, and export opportunities for Irish lamb.
The visit centred around Rungis International Market, located just outside Paris. Often described as the largest fresh food market in the world, Rungis spans over 230 hectares and handles over 1.5 million tonnes of food annually, including vast volumes of beef and lamb. It serves as a critical hub for food distribution across France and Europe, making it a strategic location for understanding consumer trends and supply chain logistics.
During the visit, the group toured the meat halls, met with Kepak’s French commercial team, and engaged with buyers and distributors who work directly with Irish lamb. Discussions focused on quality specifications, cut preferences, and the importance of sustainability and traceability in maintaining Ireland’s reputation as a premium meat producer.
The trip also included a visit to Kepak’s customer facilities, where participants saw how Irish lamb is prepared and presented for the French market. This hands-on experience helped farmers better understand how their product is positioned abroad and the evolving expectations of European consumers.
Speaking about the initiative, David Mannion, Procurement Manager, said:
“The Young Sheep Farmer Forum is about empowering the next generation of Irish farmers with the knowledge and connections they need to thrive. By visiting Rungis, participants gained a deeper understanding of the export landscape and how innovation and quality drive demand for Irish lamb.”
The forum is part of Kepak’s broader commitment to supporting young farmers through education, market access, and sustainability leadership with their #ForwardTogetherWithEveryStep sustainability approach. Previous forum days have focused on genetics, animal health, and farm performance, with this year’s international visit marking a significant milestone in expanding the programme’s scope. It is supported by Bord Bia and Mountbellew Agricultural College, Teagasc.
As part of the programme we’ve been shining a spotlight on these future leaders and the work they do on farm. You can watch their stories over on our TikTok page