How a Cork city health food shop found itself at the forefront of social change in Ireland

The Quay Co-op has thrived and pushed boundaries since it opened in 1982

Arthur Leahy, one of the founders of Cork's Quay Coop.  Picture: Eddie O'Hare

Four decades in business is a significant milestone for any enterprise — and especially one so embedded in Cork’s social history. 

Down through the years, the Quay Co-op has been at the forefront of social justice campaigns, locally and nationally, since its doors opened, campaigning for gay rights, women’s rights, and on environmental issues.