McGowans Print proud to contribute to Lidl’s groundbreaking sustainable retail milestone in Maynooth

Lidl Ireland has officially opened the doors to Ireland’s first Net Zero Energy supermarket in Maynooth, marking a significant milestone in sustainable retail, and McGowans Print is proud to have played a part in bringing this ambitious project to life. The new Lidl Maynooth Net Zero Energy store, which opened this month, represents a major step forward in Lidl’s commitment to environmental sustainability, combining innovative building design, renewable energy systems, and sustainable operations to achieve net zero energy consumption.

McGowans’ Role in Sustainable Retail Design

McGowans Print provided comprehensive signage solutions for the Lidl Maynooth Net Zero Energy store, working closely with Lidl’s sustainability team to ensure that every element—from materials to production processes—aligned with the store’s ambitious environmental goals.

The signage package included, interior wayfinding, promotional displays, department signage, etc., all designed and produced with sustainability at the forefront.

A Landmark Achievement for Irish Retail

The Lidl Maynooth Net Zero Energy store opening was attended by Minister for Climate, Environment and Energy, Darragh O’Brien, T.D., alongside Lidl Ireland leadership and sustainability experts, underscoring the national significance of this achievement.

Key sustainable features of the store include:

“This project demonstrates what’s possible when retailers set ambitious sustainability targets and work collaboratively with their supply chain partners,” added Channelle Ross

Sustainable Materials, Sustainable Processes

McGowans’ approach to the Maynooth project reflected our broader commitment to sustainable print and display solutions:

Materials: We specified FSC-certified materials with high recycled content, ensuring all signage could be recycled at end-of-life

Production: Energy-efficient production processes, waste minimization, water-based inks

Design: Designed for durability and longevity, reducing the need for frequent replacement

What This Means for the Industry

The Lidl Maynooth Net Zero Energy store sets a new benchmark for sustainable retail in Ireland. It proves that ambitious environmental goals are achievable when innovation, commitment, and collaboration come together.

For print and display partners like McGowans, projects like this reinforce the critical role we play in helping retailers achieve their sustainability targets. Every element of the in-store environment, including signage and displays – contributes to the overall environmental footprint.

Looking Ahead

The success of the Maynooth store is just the beginning. McGowans Print continues to invest in sustainable materials, technologies, and processes to support clients across retail and beyond in their journey toward Net Zero Energy operations.

This week, Channelle Ross presented on Lidl’s Net Zero Energy Store initiative at the POPAI Sustainability Seminar in Dublin, sharing insights from this groundbreaking project with industry leaders.

Want to learn more about sustainable print and display solutions? Contact our sustainability team to discuss how McGowans can support your environmental goals.

Media Coverage

The opening of Ireland’s first Net Zero Energy supermarket has generated significant media attention:

About McGowans Print

McGowans Print is a leading Irish print and display solutions provider, committed to sustainable practices across all areas of our business. From FSC-certified materials and energy-efficient production to waste reduction and circular economy initiatives, we partner with clients to deliver high-quality solutions that minimize environmental impact.

Learn more: Sustainability

Contact our Sustainability Team: