Entrepreneurs come to the fore in
recessionary times, and so it was with
Peadar and Mairín O’Lionáird. Back
in 1983, when both were out of a
job, they started making marmalade.
Today, Folláin is a household brand
with business increasing 10%
annually, writes Mairead Lavery.
..........the rhubarb & Ginger is one of the outstanding products in the range. Made of only rhubarb, sugar, and ginger, it is a delightful, slightly spicy, explosion and would be perfect with some crumbled shortbread and a creamy egg custard. Follain also offer a range of sugar-free jams, sweetened with grape juice and a little pectin.... The Blackcurrant no added sugar jam is particularly delicious stirred into natural yoghurt for a healthy breakfast accompaniment to muesli.
Folláin, the Irish for "wholesome", was set up by Eithne Ui Shiadhail and Mairin Ui Lionaird in 1983. Using family recipes, the Cork-based company began as a small operation producing grapefruit marmalade, jam and chutney recipes. Over the past 20 years the business has grown from two employees to 14 and sales reached over €3m in 2008.
Folláin is now the leading jam manufacturer in Ireland and supplies all the multiples including Tesco, SuperValu, Dunnes Stores and Superquinn as well as independent shops and food service.
In 2000, Folláin built a new 7,000 sq. ft production facility. It has expanded its range to include no-added-sugar jams and relishes which are proving to be commercially successful.
Folláin has won gold, silver and bronze awards from the Guild of Fine Foods, including three gold awards in 2008.
