Crisp new funding will allow Cork firm to expand

A Cork company specialising in lower-fat, gluten-free snacks has secured equity investment of €465,000.

The funding would allow Veronica's Snacks to break into new markets and introduce new flavours to its range this year, the company said. It started selling in the UK last summer and is also supplying Ireland's supermarket and convenience store sectors.

Founded in 2012 by Veronica Kenneally, the company markets and distributes its crisps under the Veronica's and Crunchy Creatures brands, offering consumers a healthier alternative for snacking.

The new funding comes from Enterprise Ireland, AIB Seed Capital, local investment syndicate Boole and chartered accountant Brian McGann.

At the announcement of the investment, Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation Richard Bruton wished the Bishopstown-based business, which currently employs three people, "every success" with its growth plans. He said investments such as that in "an innovative Irish food company" were at the heart of the Government's jobs plan.

Enterprise Ireland chief executive Julie Sinnamon said it was "very encouraging to see an Irish company developing a world-class product" and that Veronica's Snacks was an example of the "creative and entrepreneurial companies Enterprise Ireland is keen to support".