Family-run bakeries are bringing cheer

While many businesses have been struggling during the Covid-19 pandemic, one family-run wholesale bakery in Omagh has been expanding its operation.

For the last 40 years, Mullaghmore Bakery has been supplying tasty teatime treats and other baked goodies to convenience stores and supermarkets across the North. Current owner, Damien Corrigan, whose parents Kathleen and John started the business in 1980, said they had remained busy throughout the lockdown and had even taken over an additional unit in Gortrush Industrial Estate as they needed more space for dispatching goods.

He said, “The wholesale side of things hasn’t stopped. Food’s a must. People need to eat and everyone likes a treat now and again. We’ve seen steady growth.” And their business is showing no sign of slowing down, with Christmas just around the corner. Preparations for the festive season are well underway at Mullaghmore, with a selection of seasonal delights such as mince pies and Christmas slices to tempt the tastebuds of local shoppers.

Meanwhile, the owner of another family-run bakery in Omagh said she was looking forward to bringing some Christmas cheer to the town this year after what has been a gruelling time for everyone. Dorothea Kidd, of Bakewells Patisserie on Campsie Road, thanked all their customers for their support over the years, but especially during the Covid-19 lockdown, when there was so much uncertainty. She said, “We are looking forward to preparing Christmas products to bring some cheer to the end of this year.”

At Bakewells, breads, scones and pastries are baked fresh on a daily basis including a range of wheaten and soda breads. Other favourites include ten varieties of scones, cupcakes and cakes for all occasions and a range of desserts available every weekend. Dorothea said, “Since the beginning of lockdown we have teamed up with Goferit to offer a swift delivery service which many customers have made good use of, whether it be a delivery of your own necessities or a special hamper or cake sent to a loved one to brighten their day through these tough times. “Christmas order sheets are available in store now for all products.”