Hoppy times as city brewery is 170 years old
A brewery on the northside of Cork city is celebrating 170 years having begun as family owned business.
Founded in June 1856 by James J Murphy and his brothers, the Lady’s Well Brewery has been a cornerstone of Cork’s industrial, economic and social fabric for generations.
Now Heineken, the anniversary marks not only a significant chapter in the company's history, but also celebrates the generations of employees, suppliers, customers and communities which have been part of its journey.
Today, Heineken employs more than 600 people across Ireland, with the Lady's Well Brewery remaining at the heart of the business. More than 95 per cent of the company's draught beer sold in Ireland is brewed in Cork, and the company supports local farmers and suppliers across communities, as all of its pale malted barley is sourced from farming families across the country, generating further employment and positive economic impact.
Sharon Walsh, Managing Director of Heineken Ireland, said: "Given our long and deep-rooted association with Cork, this anniversary is an opportunity to recognise the generations of people whose dedication, skill and commitment have built this brewery into what it is today. From our employees and customers to our suppliers and farming partners, this milestone celebration belongs to everyone who has been part of our story. While we are proud of our heritage, we are equally excited for the future.”
The brewery's history is one of continuous evolution and adaption, to best meet consumer needs. From the construction of its historic malt house in 1889, to the launch of Heineken in Ireland in 1978, becoming Ireland's number one lager brand in 1989, a position it has held for almost 40 years, the acquisition of Beamish & Crawford brands in 2008 and the introduction more recently of Heineken 0.0, Moretti and Orchard Thieves, innovation has remained central to the brewery's success. The brewery is also home to Murphy’s, one of Ireland’s most iconic stout brands. First brewed by the Murphy family in Cork in 1856, it continues to grow in popularity in Ireland and internationally.
PJ Tierney, Head Brewer, Heineken Ireland, added: "For 170 years, brewing has taken place on this site in the heart of Cork city. Every generation of brewers has contributed something unique, while preserving the craftsmanship and highest standards of product quality that define the Lady's Well Brewery. This anniversary is a celebration of these generations of people. We are proud of our heritage, our connection to Cork and our contribution to Irish brewing. Most importantly, we are proud of the people who have shaped our story over the last 170 years.”