Michael Horgan, managing director Horgan’s Delicatessen Supplies Ltd. With sons Paul (purchasing manager) and Edward (sales manager), at the announcement of the company achieving AEO certification. (Photo: Cathal Noonan)

Mitchelstown company Horgan’s Delicatessen Supplies Ltd. has been awarded the coveted Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) certificate.

Among only 27 Irish registered food and beverage companies that have achieved AEO status, this certification puts Horgan’s at a distinct advantage above its competitors.

AEO accreditation is awarded by customs authorities across the EU to a business that has proved it’s a ‘trusted trader’, is financially solvent and its supply chain is secure.

The certification can go a long way in futureproofing businesses as the threat of Brexit looms on the horizon.

Tried & Trusted Supplier

“While no company can become Brexit-proof, Horgan’s Delicatessen Supplies Ltd. has taken all the steps necessary to ensure we are as agile as possible, given the uncertainty that lies ahead,” said Michael Horgan, Managing Director at Horgan’s. “The rewards of securing AEO certification are manifold and we look forward to continuing to be a tried and trusted supplier to our vast network of customers.”

Celebrate Horgan’s AEO certification were William Harnedy, Operations / Warehouse Manager; Edward Horgan, sales manager; Michael Horgan, managing director; Paul Horgan, purchasing manager and David Dowling, technical/quality manager. (Photo: Cathal Noonan)

Operating from a state of the state-of-the-art warehouse and production facility with over 40,000 square feet including chilled, frozen and ambient warehouse together with office space, the company’s Mitchelstown facility offers a clean room environment for cheese cutting, waxing and packing.

Traders like Horgan’s who voluntarily meet the range of criteria in relation to AEO certification, work in close cooperation with customs authorities to assure the common objective of supply chain security.

As a result, Horgan’s will enjoy benefits of the status throughout the EU. The programme aims to enhance international supply chain security and to facilitate legitimate trade.

With AEO status, Horgan’s will benefit from recognition worldwide as safe, secure and compliant business partners in international trade, priority treatment in the event of physical customs controls, reduced data sets for entry and exit summary declarations, easier access to simplified customs procedures and fewer delayed shipments.