14 September 2025
By Tom Collins
tom@TheCork.ie
Well-known Cork Business celebrates 50 years
Blarney Woollen Mills marked its 50th anniversary with a landmark celebration on Saturday, September 13, 2025, bringing together generations of makers, visitors, and dignitaries for a day of heritage, music, and community spirit.
Freda Hayes, CEO of Blarney Woollen Mills with An Taoiseach Micheál Martin at the celebrations to mark Blarney Woollen Mills 50th anniversary.
Pic. Darragh Kane
Freda Hayes, CEO of Blarney Woollen Mills with An Taoiseach Micheál Martin at the celebrations to mark Blarney Woollen Mills 50th anniversary.
Pic. Darragh Kane
Freda Hayes, CEO of Blarney Woollen Mills with An Taoiseach Micheál Martin at the celebrations to mark Blarney Woollen Mills 50th anniversary.
Pic. Darragh Kane
Freda Hayes, CEO of Blarney Woollen Mills with Lord Mayor Cllr Fergal Dennehy and An Taoiseach Micheál Martin at the celebrations to mark Blarney Woollen Mills 50th anniversary.
Pic. Darragh Kane
MEP Billy Kelleher and Cllr Dr John Sheehan at the celebrations to mark Blarney Woollen Mills 50th anniversary.
Pic. Darragh Kane
Colm Burke TD and Pat Ledwidge, Chair of Nano Nagle Place at the celebrations to mark Blarney Woollen Mills 50th anniversary.
Pic. Darragh Kane
Freda Hayes, CEO of Blarney Woollen Mills and Lord Mayor Cllr Fergal Dennehy with An Taoiseach Micheál Martin as he cuts the ribbon at the celebrations to mark Blarney Woollen Mills 50th anniversary.
Pic. Darragh Kane
A highlight of the festivities was the official launch of the Blarney Aran Experience, performed by Taoiseach Micheál Martin, who unveiled the return of live Aran knitwear production onsite for the first time in decades. Guests had the opportunity to watch Aran sweaters being crafted before their eyes, connecting Ireland’s deep tradition of knitwear with a modern audience.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said:
“Family businesses like Blarney Woollen Mills are the heartbeat of our communities and the backbone of Irish enterprise — creating jobs, supporting local crafts and passing on tradition from one generation to the next. Their resilience and creativity keep our heritage alive while shaping Ireland’s future in a way that inspires us all.”
Special guests included the Lord Mayor of Cork, Fergal Dennehy, who joined in celebrating the milestone alongside local councillors, community members, suppliers, and international visitors.
“What began as a small thatched-cottage shop in 1975 has grown into a world-class retail destination,” said Freda Hayes, CEO of Blarney Woollen Mills.
“Saturday’s celebration was more than a milestone—it was a tribute to the generations of makers, suppliers, staff, and customers who have made Blarney Woollen Mills what it is today. As we return to our roots with onsite Aran knitting, we’re also looking to the future, where Irish design and sustainability remain at the heart of everything we do.” She added.
Event Highlights
The day-long celebration drew large crowds and featured a full programme of performances and family-friendly activities, including:
- Live music by Cailíní Lua, Ceol, and Pat Fitz
- Irish dancing showcases
- Supplier pop-ups and craft demonstrations
- Children’s entertainment with face painting and balloon modelling
- A one-day-only anniversary sale with 20% off in-store and online
The atmosphere was one of joy and pride, as visitors from near and far gathered to honour five decades of Irish heritage, creativity, and resilience.
About Blarney Woollen Mills
Founded in 1975, Blarney Woollen Mills has grown from a small shop into an internationally recognised destination, offering the finest Irish knitwear, gifts, and homeware. With a commitment to quality, sustainability, and supporting Irish manufacturing, the company continues to share the best of Ireland with the world.