NEWSOctober 5, 2026

Tesco names nine brands for its 2026 Accelerator Programme

The retailer's sixth cohort spans olive oil, dumplings, fermented foods and functional drinks, with a year of mentoring and a route onto shelf.

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Tesco names nine brands for its 2026 Accelerator Programme

Tesco has revealed the nine brands joining its 2026 Accelerator Programme, the sixth cohort of a scheme that has now backed more than 90 suppliers. Selected brands get a year of tailored mentoring with Tesco's buying team, targeted learning and business-skills support, plus the chance to win listings in stores and online.

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This year's line-up leans heavily into premium and functional food and drink. It features two olive oil brands, Citizens of Soil and Glug; dairy drink DedCalm; Australian dumpling brand Mr Chen's; whole-food convenience brand Frood, founded by Frida Redknapp; fermented food specialist Eaten Alive; Nice Rice; functional coconut water Coco Gen; and family-owned pet food maker Skinner's.

"It's always inspiring to meet ambitious founders and hear the stories behind their businesses. We're excited to support them as they grow with Tesco," said Helena Dennis, lead programme manager for the Tesco Accelerator Programme.

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Paper Run

Paper Run helps brands win back customers that email can't reach through automated direct mail that integrates with Shopify & Klaviyo.

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Wayflyer provides purpose-built financing to consumer brands worldwide, deploying over $6 billion to 7,000+ businesses since launching in 2020.

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Riverflow is the leading creative AI platform for CPG and Fashion brands, built specifically for high quality, brand accurate visuals in both photoshoots, static ads and videos.

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Vine Talent

Josh at Vine Talent provides consultative executive search for ambitious European consumer brands, helping founders access the calibre of international talent needed to unlock their next stage of growth.

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