This is a global first.

Lidl Ireland is set to become the first major retailer in the world to offer free period products in stores nationwide in partnership with Homeless Period Ireland and The Simon Communities of Ireland.

The bid to end period poverty will see the retailer offer a dedicated coupon for a free box of sanitary pads or tampons per customer each month through their app Lidl Plus.

The supermarket has also committed to quarterly donations of these products to The Simon Communities to ensure people experiencing homelessness – who may not have access to a smartphone – can access them.

Lidl, which sponsors the Ladies Gaelic Football Association, is also working with the organisation to provide free period products in its LGFA clubs across the country with hopes to reach thousands of more women and young girls who may not have access to these products on a regular basis.

In addition, Lidl will continue to provide free access to these products to its workforce.

“As a long-time supporter of women in sport, our female workforce, and now women and girls across the country affected by this issue, we are pleased to partner with Homeless Period Ireland to make this unprecedented commitment to provide free period products for those who need them whilst Government legislation is being worked on.” said Aoife Clarke, Head of Communications for Lidl Ireland.

Starting on April 19th, those looking to get urgent access to period products can download Lidl’s app, Lidl Plus, and sign up to receive a free monthly coupon which they will receive on May 3rd and then ongoing on monthly basis.