A Tyrone creamery has become the first company in Northern Ireland to win a contract to supply one of its speciality products to the world’s biggest retailer — thanks to its relationship with the supermarket chain ASDA.

Fivemiletown Creamery, which employs 60 people and has been a supplier to ASDA’s 13 Northern Ireland stores for the last two years, will now supply its Oakwood Smoked Cheddar to Sam’s Club.

Sam’s Club is a membership-only warehouse chain which is a division of ASDA’s owners, US-based giant Wal-Mart Stores.

Some 2,800 deli wheels of Oakwood smoked cheddar, which is also being supplied to ASDA as part of Fivemiletown’s Christmas selection pack, have been ordered by Sam’s Club for the US market, with the product due to be on the shelves in America by mid March.

Shawn Baldwin, vice president, merchandising at Sam’s Club, said: “This Irish cheddar is one of the best gourmet cheeses available and we continue to see increasing demand from our members in the US for fine foods like this to be incorporated into other dishes or as an appetiser.”

While Fivemiletown Creamery has had previous successes in the US market, the company says this is one of the biggest single shipments to the American retail sector which it has secured.

According to sales manager, Kevin McManus, the deal represents a significant development for the company.

He said: “Two years after agreeing our first supply contract with ASDA NI, we are dealing directly with the supermarket’s parent company in the US.

“This is a landmark achievement and demonstrates the strength and value of our two-way partnership with ASDA.”

He added: “We appreciate the support and advice provided by ASDA’s local buying team throughout the introduction and deal securing process.

“We now look forward to furthering our relationship with Wal-Mart, through Sam’s Club.”

Congratulating the team from Fivemiletown Creamery, Brian Conway, ASDA NI Buyer said: “This is a great achievement and we’re delighted that one of our top suppliers has maximised the benefits of being part of the ASDA/Wal-Mart group through this great export opportunity.

“Our own local business with Fivemiletown has more than doubled over the last year so this really is another great Christmas present for our supplier.”

Last month, Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster praised the creamery , which is celebrating 110 years in business this year, for its export success as it develops new international markets for speciality cheeses.