The partnership has already delivered results, with two Horizons participants working at Sysco’s Cork depot for over three years.
Sysco Ireland has renewed its partnership with Cork-based charity Horizons, signing a new three-year agreement that reinforces its long-term commitment to advancing inclusion, education, and employment opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities and autism.
A Renewed Three-Year Commitment to Inclusion, Education and Opportunity
Central to the partnership is Horizons’ Ability@Work programme, which is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and European Social Fund. The programme is delivered through the Sysco Purpose Academy, a bespoke warehouse training academy based at Sysco Ireland’s Cork distribution centre. The programme is designed to provide young adults with intellectual disabilities and autism with real-life, practical work experience, supporting their transition towards meaningful employment.
Speaking on the partnership, Mark Lee, CEO, Sysco Ireland said,
“This three-year partnership reflects a shared vision between Sysco Ireland and Horizons to build inclusive pathways to employment and create lasting social impact through meaningful collaboration.”
The partnership has already delivered tangible results, with two Horizons participants, Kaelan and Tadgh, working at Sysco’s Cork depot for more than three years. We look forward to continuing to grow this partnership, expanding opportunities and deepening the positive impact we can make together.”
Ability@Work Provides Practical Training Through the Sysco Purpose Academy
The programme is led by Sysco’s experienced learning and development team, with expert guidance from Horizons. Participants receive hands-on training across a range of core warehouse functions and essential employability skills, including Health & Safety, Manual Handling, Food Safety, warehouse operations across multiple workstations, and access and egress training.
As part of the programme, participants also spend time with Sysco drivers, acting as a driver buddy on customer deliveries, and complete HR-focused modules covering CV preparation and mock interviews. Each participant graduates with a Sysco-accredited certificate.
Expanded Support, Fundraising and Future Hospitality Training from 2026
Colleagues from across the Sysco Ireland business volunteer their time, skills, and knowledge to develop and deliver the academy, supported by ongoing disability awareness training rolled out across the organisation, including to Sysco’s Executive Team.
Marian Hennessy, Ability@Work Manager, Horizons, said
“The partnership with Sysco has delivered meaningful inclusive employment outcomes. Two participants have gained employment and are thriving as valued team members. Another four have completed a practical ‘hands on’ warehouse training course, building their work readiness skills.
The delivery of disability awareness training has further supported Sysco staff to positively embrace and grow a more inclusive workplace culture. Seeing our jobseekers thrive in real jobs is what drives us every day. We are looking forward to expanding this partnership and increasing opportunities into the future”.
Lorraine Egan, CEO Horizons adds
“We are delighted to extend our three-year partnership with Sysco Ireland. This collaboration reflects our mutual dedication to providing meaningful employment opportunities, which not only benefits those we support, but also has a positive impact on the wider community.
The feedback from Sysco and other employers highlights how, with a shared vision and commitment, we can create an inclusive society where everyone can contribute meaningfully.”
Beyond the Purpose Academy, Sysco Ireland actively supports Horizons through fundraising initiatives, including sponsorship of Horizons’ annual calendar and annual Golf Classic, helping to sustain vital services and programmes.
Looking ahead, the new three-year agreement creates opportunities to further expand the partnership, with Sysco Ireland planning to introduce hospitality-focused training modules from 2026.
