ONE hundred years after opening its doors at 13 High Street, Donaghadee, a local butcher’s shop is celebrating its centenary.
Tommy Cooper, the proud owner when the shop first opened, could scarcely have imagined the huge changes that would take place over the ensuing 100 years and yet the shop remains embedded in the community and appeals to local shoppers and visitors alike.
The current owner, Simon Wright, organised a celebration on Saturday with a barbecue, gifts and an opportunity for shoppers to win vouchers.
“The world has seen many changes over the past 100 years – a second world war, men on the moon, worldwide travel, medical and technology advances to name but a few – and as would be expected butcher shops have also seen major changes,” said Simon.
Simon’s dad, Joe, started working for Tommy’s son George Cooper in 1961. In days gone by the animals were killed in the slaughterhouse behind the shop and sides of beef hung on the wall. Sunday lunch was a special family time when rib roasts, legs of lamb and chicken were the housewife’s choice.
Stewing steak, mince and even tripe were on the menu during the week.
Joe bought the shop from his employer in 1974 and carried out a major refit in 2017 ensuring that the changes were in keeping with the town’s conservation status by giving it the look and feel of an old butcher’s shop while, at the same time, making sure the needs and expectations of today’s customers were uppermost.
Since then the business has gone from strength to strength forming a very effective partnership with the Hendersons Group by providing butchery counters at their supermarkets in Donaghadee, Kircubbin, Millisle and Newtownards.
Joe has handed most of the day-to-day operation to his son Simon who explained: “We now employ 18 staff across all our outlets.
“We bake our own pies, sausage rolls, lasagna, stew and soup at our off-site kitchen and continue to make a variety of sausages in the shop premises. All our meat is sourced from local quality assured farmers and we are continually looking at how we can meet the needs of our customers,” he added.
“Some of our customers are looking for traditional cuts and products while others are looking for quick cooking options from the deli and grab counter. Over the years we have gained a reputation for quality and exceptional customer service whilst maintaining the highest standards of hygiene.
“Every member of staff takes great pride in serving with a smile and is willing to give advice and guidance where necessary. We were thrilled and delighted when J Wright & Sons were awarded Northern Ireland’s Supreme Sausage Champions in 2023. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all our wonderful customers for their support – it is much appreciated and will never be taken for granted”
Customers attending the celebration were provided with barbecue treats including the award-winning sausages, candy for the children and every customer was entered in a draw for an opportunity to win meat vouchers.
Enjoying the celebrations, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, Mayor of Ards and North Down said: “Serving the community for 100 years is something to be proud of and is testament to the superior service provided by local retailers such as J. Wright & Son. They are a great example of the excellent service offered by local retailers right across our Borough.
“All of our town centres and villages offer real value for money through great products and personal service, as well as helping to support local jobs and the economy, so I encourage everyone to shop local and make the most of this personalised service.”
