From Coleslaw To Christmas Oats: An Armagh Manufacturer’s Journey With M&S

Co. Armagh-based Avondale Foods has grown from a family farm in Craigavon to one of Northern Ireland’s most recognisable food producers. At the heart of that journey sits a partnership with M&S that has now spanned nearly six decades – a relationship that continues to evolve just a few miles from the renewed M&S Craigavon store.

Founded in 1965 by brothers Harry and Derek Geddis, Avondale began by growing vegetables for local retailers. The company started supplying lettuce to M&S in 1968 and has since expanded its range to include products found on M&S Foodhall shelves across the UK and Ireland.

By the 1980s, Avondale had become the first company in Northern Ireland to manufacture coleslaw, establishing itself as one of the leading suppliers in the UK and Ireland – and marking a major milestone in its growing partnership with M&S. Today, remains the sole supplier of M&S coleslaw and potato salad across the UK and Ireland. Alongside these classics, the company also produces a diverse range of products, including stuffed mushrooms, croutons, stir-fry sauces, noodles and, more recently, overnight oats – all made in its custom-built facility in Lurgan.

Talking about the relationship with M&S, Greer Geddis, son of the late founder Derek Geddis and now one of the company’s directors, says the key to their success lies in a shared commitment to quality.

"What M&S expect of us, we expect of our own suppliers," Greer explains. "We bring everyone together a few times a year and refresh the focus on quality. When we’re discussing new products, quality always comes first. I believe that’s at the core of our longstanding relationship."

The partnership thrives on innovation as much as tradition. “We love it when M&S set us a challenge,” he adds. “Many of the products you see on shelves began exactly that way.”

As food trends evolved, Avondale saw growing demand for healthy, convenient breakfasts.

“Once we entered the oats side of things, we saw huge potential. Flavours like apple crumble, salted caramel – and now something festive. When M&S asked for a new, innovative Christmas product, our Gingerbread Overnight Oats were born. It’s a seasonal product we’re really proud to see on M&S shelves this year."

And the Gingerbread Overnight Oats are just the beginning.

“Breakfast isn’t slowing down,” says Greer. “People want great-tasting, convenient options. This new addition for M&S is just the start.”

Innovation, he adds, is non-negotiable. “We have to keep evolving. M&S are innovators too – they want products that catch the eye, taste amazing, and meet the highest standards. That’s what keeps our partnership moving forward. We’re approaching 60 years as an M&S supplier, and we’re proud of how our relationship continues to grow.”

Reflecting on the partnership, Laura Harper, M&S Country Director for Ireland and Northern Ireland, said: “Avondale Foods perfectly represents the values that define our relationships with local suppliers – quality, innovation, and trust. Their commitment to excellence and their ability to continually evolve with our customers’ needs have made them an invaluable partner for almost 60 years. As we celebrate the renewal of our Craigavon store, it’s wonderful to shine a light on a local business that has played such an important role in bringing the very best of Northern Ireland to our shelves.”

From family-farm vegetables to festive oats, the Avondale and M&S partnership continues to thrive – driven by curiosity, quality, and a shared passion for great food.

As M&S Craigavon prepares for an exciting new chapter with the transformation of its store, Avondale’s story stands as a proud example of local suppliers at the heart of M&S innovation and success.