Lisavaird Co-Op's centenary day draws thousands for celebration in West Cork  

The event celebrated Lisavaird's various businesses across the community

Visitors enjoying the history and memorabilia marquee at Lisavaird's centenary celebration day at Tullyneasky West in West Cork. Thousands of people attended a packed programme. Pictures: Andy Gibson

The centenary day at Lisavaird Co-Op proved a stunning success with thousands of visitors to the West Cork creamery’s celebration day. 

The event saw the local community join customers and suppliers travelling to Lisavaird Central for the occasion, which included everything from office tours and magicians to food sampling and vintage displays.

Kevin Finn from Clonakilty with Lisavaird Co-Op chief executive Martin Dineen. Picture: Andy Gibson.

The event also included talks on some of the food companies within the group - Glen Áine Foods in Co Limerick, Coolmore bakery in Bandon, Co Cork, Glenmar Shellfish in Union Hall, Chefs Choice Fish Company in Galway, and JDS Foods in Cork City - and a chance to sample some of their food products. 

"It turned into a fantastic afternoon enjoyed by people of all ages," said Lisavaird CEO Martin Dineen. "It was especially lovely to welcome families who have been connected to the Co-Op for generations, as well as staff and retirees sharing their memories with their children and grandchildren. 

Sonny Walsh from Rosscarbery trying out a vintage truck for size. Picture: Andy Gibson

"The event also gave us the chance to showcase our recent developments at Lisavaird Central, including the office tours, our new Costcutter store, and upgraded forecourt.” Lisavaird’s co-op business has undergone a major modernisation and in the past 12 months, investing €5.5m in a new mill. 

Joe, Katelynn, Cian, Laoise, Johanna, and Darragh Crowley from Ballineen enjoying the Lisavaird event. Picture: Andy Gibson.

The day included events for all ages, with a kids zone, kids' entertainers, magic shows mobile petting farms, and outside broadcasts from FM103.

Another hit was the history and memorabilia marquee, where a steady stream of visitors browsed photographs and displays representing decades of Lisavaird Co-Op across all its branches. Local historian Michael O’Mahony delivered a series of history talks to packed audiences, shining a light on The Story of Lisavaird Co-Op,a book published by the late Chris Collins.

Visitors queue for the history of Lisavaird exhibition. Picture: Andy Gibson.

The celebration cake for the big day at Lisavaird. 

"The smiles, stories, and positive feedback throughout the day made it truly memorable. I wish to sincerely thank all the team for all their hard work in organising this event and to thank everyone who joined us in marking this milestone,” said Mr Dinneen.

Lisavaird now employs 382 people across its business. Profits at Lisavaird Co-Op grew 7.5% to €4.4m in 2024.