Monaghan Food Start-Up Bia Cultures Shines at National Ploughing Championships

(L-R) Rory Gartan, Co-FounderBia Cultures, with Clair McKenna, Local Enterprise Office Monaghan,

Pictured in the Local Enterprise Village at the recent National Ploughing Championships in Tullamore.

One of Monaghan’s most exciting emerging food businesses, Bia Cultures, has just wrapped up a successful three-day showcase at the 2025 National Ploughing Championships, proudly flying the flag for the county in the Local Enterprise Village.

Founded by local entrepreneurs Rory Gartlan and Laura Pusceddu, Bia Cultures specialises in raw, unpasteurised fermented foods crafted entirely from seasonal Irish vegetables. Their stall attracted significant attention throughout the event for its unique blend of traditional fermentation techniques with a modern Irish twist.

Throughout the Championships, visitors to the Local Enterprise Village were treated to tastings, expert insights, and engaging conversations with the Bia Cultures team. From tangy krauts to zingy kimchis, the duo's passion for flavour, sustainability, and Irish-grown produce was clear to see, and taste.

“This was a huge opportunity for us to showcase what we do to a national audience,” said co-founder Rory. “We’re incredibly proud to represent Monaghan’s growing food scene and to connect with people who are as excited about Irish fermentation as we are.”

Their participation was supported by Local Enterprise Office Monaghan, as part of an ongoing commitment to promote local innovation and small business growth through national platforms such as the Ploughing Championships.

“Bia Cultures exemplifies the talent, creativity, and sustainability focus we’re seeing across Monaghan’s food and agri sector,” said a spokesperson from the Local Enterprise Office. “We’re thrilled with the response they received and look forward to supporting more local businesses to follow in their footsteps.”

With Ploughing 2025 now wrapped up, the call is out to Monaghan businesses interested in taking part in future showcases. Those interested are encouraged to contact the Local Enterprise Office Monaghan, email: info@leo.monaghancoco.ie to learn more about the selection process and how to get involved (*T&Cs apply).