Gala at the core of the community
In business for four generations, Gala Killydoon continues to service the local community and beyond.
The family business is at the heart of the community in Killydoon, as Paudie McKenna explained that the word community has become synonymous with family in the local shop.
“The family isn’t just the family, the community is the family nearly,” he said.
The business was set up in the early 1900s by Paudie’s wife Mags’ family - the Lynches. The couple bought the business in 2006.
The store is home to a deli, grocer, off licence and fuel stop, everything necessary for locals and passers-by alike. It also boasts a cosy seating area “built as a hub for all generations; anyone who wants a warm meal and a chat can come and spend a bit of time there”.
Click and collect and home delivery services are also available.
“Everything a local community needs,” he said.
“We always feel we are more than just a grocery shop. It’s a place where the community gathers. We strive to cater for everyone - from the young kids who come for our famous ice-cream to the work men in the high viz jackets looking for the chicken fillet roll and the mammies rushing home in the evening needed something quick for the dinner.”
The “latest challenge” facing the shop is the installation of a new bypass, which avoids the shop. The businessman explained how the enterprise plans to overcome this.
“We’ve recently renovated the shop, we spent a lot of money, really ripped the shop apart and put it back together again,” he said, explaining that they re-branded the shop and are also rebranding the fuel pumps to Emo and are introducing HVO fuel.
“You’re always trying to evolve,” he added.
The store employs 14 people - five of whom are family members. Paudie’s daughter, Sarah, who is 15 and his two nieces work in the shop, alongside he and his wife.
Sarah is completing her TY work experience in the shop and enjoys working there. “She’s embraced it and the few pound doesn’t go astray,” he laughed.
Darragh (14) and Connor (12) are “getting there” when it comes to pitching in with the family business.
“They’re edging their way in,” reported Paudie.
The father of three said it is “absolutely” important to keep the business in the family.
“It’s the personal touch of it,” he said.
The business gives the family “a sense of pride, of achievement".
“When you know you’ve given the customers a good experience, you know they’re going to come back to you.
“That’s our modus operandi really - to try and get repeat business and give a customer a good experience.”
Concluding Paudie says what really sets Gala Killydoon apart is the atmosphere they’ve created.
“We don’t just serve customers, we build relationships. We know our customers by name and we make them feel welcome.
“Our long hours and hard work are rewarded by the sense of belonging we’ve built - not just for our family but for our community.”
Gala Killydoon also strives to give back to the local community by supporting local groups and causes such as the Mullahoran GAA club.
CONTACT US
Gala Killydoon (H12YY18)
Call: 043-6683129