The Northern Ireland Food To Go Association (NIFTGA) has announced a new partnership with Zempler Bank, strengthening the practical and commercial support available to food-to-go businesses across Northern Ireland.
The collaboration is aimed at sole traders, micro-businesses and SMEs operating in the sector, many of which continue to face cost and cashflow pressures. Alongside financial management tools and business banking services, NIFTGA members will be provided with a special banking offer by Zempler Bank, which includes up to 1% cashback on qualifying card payments. The wider relationship will also include ongoing educational content and member engagement on banking services through the Association, tailored to Northern Ireland’s food-to-go sector. Full details will be shared directly with members alongside a dedicated application route.
Northern Ireland Food To Go Association
The partnership follows on from the findings in Zempler Bank’s recent Feeling the Heat report, which highlighted the financial pressures facing small hospitality and food and beverage businesses, including rising operating costs, seasonal fluctuations in income, payroll demands and unexpected expenditure.
The collaboration adds business banking support to NIFTGA’s existing network of commercial partners, including organisations from the foodservice, payments, technology and professional services sectors, to help food-to-go businesses across Northern Ireland.
Michael Henderson, Chief Executive of the Northern Ireland Food To Go Association, said: “This partnership is a huge deal for small businesses in Northern Ireland. At a time when costs continue to put pressure on business margins, Zempler’s offer gives eligible NIFTGA members the opportunity for their money to work harder while providing access to tools and support tailored to the realities of running a small enterprise.
Banking is essential, but through this partnership we can begin to change the narrative and turn what is usually viewed simply as a cost into a tangible benefit. Eligible members can earn as they bank through up to 1% cashback on qualifying card payments, while also accessing relevant education and support.
Welcoming Zempler Bank also strengthens our growing partner network and demonstrates how NIFTGA can use its collective strength to secure meaningful benefits for members.”
Nick Biggam, Commercial Director at Zempler Bank, said: “Our research shows that rising costs, fluctuating income and managing day-to-day cashflow remain key concerns for many small hospitality and food-to-go businesses.
NIFTGA is a strong collective voice for the sector and shares our commitment to helping small businesses thrive. Through this partnership, we look forward to providing members with straightforward banking services and tools that support those day-to-day challenges, alongside ongoing educational content, and engagement through the Association.”
