SLIM’S HEALTHY KITCHEN FUELS ULSTER RUGBY’S NEXT GENERATION OF TALENT
8th Sep 2026
A Belfast-based healthy food business is taking its brand from the supermarket shelves to the rugby training ground through a new partnership with Ulster Rugby.
Slim’s Healthy Kitchen will provide high-protein meals and sides to Ulster Rugby Academy players during their pre-season programme, as the business looks to support the next generation of players while extending its presence beyond its core restaurant and convenience meal offering.
The partnership will see hundreds of meals supplied to Academy players, giving them access to nutrition designed to support performance and recovery during one of the most intensive periods of the rugby calendar.
Founded by entrepreneur Gary McIldowney, Slim’s Healthy Kitchen has grown into a recognised name in Northern Ireland’s healthy food sector, with a business model spanning restaurants and convenient, ready-to-eat meals stocked in leading supermarkets.
The partnership with Ulster Rugby brings that focus directly into an elite sporting environment, supporting Academy players as they develop the strength, fitness and skills required to progress through the professional game.
McIldowney said: “We’re incredibly proud to be working with Ulster Rugby and to have the opportunity to support the next generation of talent coming through the Academy.
“Nutrition is a huge part of performance in professional sport. These young players are putting their bodies under significant demands through training, conditioning, and matches, so making sure they have access to fresh, high-quality, high-protein food that supports energy, muscle recovery, and their overall development is really important.
“At Slim’s, we’ve always believed healthy food should be convenient, accessible and something people can enjoy every day. Being able to take that approach into an elite sporting environment and help fuel these players as they work towards the next stage of their careers is something we’re incredibly excited about.”
Hugh McCaughey, CEO of Ulster Rugby, said: “We are delighted to welcome Slim’s Healthy Kitchen as a partner supporting our Academy programme. The development of young players extends far beyond what happens on the pitch, and nutrition plays a vital role in helping athletes train, recover and perform at their best.
“Our Academy players are balancing the demands of elite rugby with education, work and personal commitments, so having access to high-quality, nutritious meals during pre-season is a significant benefit. Partnerships like this help create an environment where young talent can thrive and reach their full potential.
“It is particularly pleasing to work with a successful local business that shares our commitment to supporting people in their development. We look forward to working with Gary and the team at Slim’s Healthy Kitchen as they help fuel the next generation of Ulster Rugby players.”
McIldowney added, “Ulster Rugby has a huge connection with people and communities across Northern Ireland, and we’re delighted to be playing a small part in the journey of the players who could go on to represent Ulster and, potentially, Ireland.”
