Ulster University has launched a €5.9 million project under the PEACEPLUS programme to enhance operational excellence across Ireland’s agri-food supply chains. The initiative, titled TRACE (Technological Revolution towards an Agri-Food Circular Economy), focuses on improving traceability, waste reduction, and digital transformation in the Products of Animal Origin (POAO) sector across Northern Ireland and Ireland.

Supported by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), TRACE applies advanced digital technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, blockchain, computer vision, and multimodal imaging to transform production and logistics. The goal is to create a more transparent, efficient, and environmentally responsible supply chain, with an emphasis on practical implementation for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).

TRACE’s cross-border approach will establish an Innovation Hub to help SMEs integrate digital tools and adapt to emerging operational standards. The hub will provide mentoring, pilot demonstrations, and technical support to enable long-term competitiveness and resilience.

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said the project represents “bold innovation” for the food and drink industry, driving sustainability and efficiency while supporting economic resilience. Irish Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke added that TRACE aligns with Ireland’s Food Vision 2030, strengthening digital adoption and quality control within the sector.

The PEACEPLUS programme’s Chief Executive, Gina McIntyre, highlighted TRACE as an example of economic development fostering stability and productivity across post-conflict regions. Ulster University’s research teams—from business to computing and biomedical sciences—will lead on data-driven process improvement, while partners including University College Dublin and the Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association will support industry application.

TRACE aims to give agri-food producers the digital capability to respond faster to supply disruptions, reduce spoilage, and maintain high product standards.

Explore the full article to learn how TRACE is shaping operational excellence across Ireland’s agri-food sector.