One of Galway’s most popular convenience stores has won a coveted national deli award. O’Connor’s Centra Salthill has received the much sought after ‘Overall Deli of the Year’ at the Pride of Centra Awards which took place at the Mansion House in Dublin recently.
Owners Michael & Ann O’Connor, who employ 30+ staff in the busy store said they were delighted and honoured to bring the award home to Salthill. “It’s something we’ll never forget, we were named as the best Centra deli in Ireland and it was like being in a dream. It’s one thing to hope you win but when you hear your name called out it’s just amazing. We were delighted for the team.’
Michael paid a special tribute and thanks to the deli manager Fiona Walsh and Sonia Collins for their many years of hard work and commitment. ‘This award is recognition for all the hard work and dedication they put into the deli. They keep the standards high all the time and train their team to do the same. They know their customers, know what they like and how they like it. I have also been moved by the positive response from our customers. They are truly delighted for our deli team and the excitement has been palpable. We are grateful for your support and good wishes and look forward to serving you in the future.’
Centra’s national award ceremony recognises and celebrates the best of Centra stores, its people and exemplary retail excellence.
Within the Excellence Award category, O’Connor’s Centra Salthill was awarded for Deli of the Year as audited by an independent judge. The auditor was in the store for 2 hours the day of the final audit going through everything from food safety standards, deli presentation and innovation, deli hygiene standards and customer service.’
The feedback from the auditor was that the team displayed passion for quality fresh food, organisation, food safety standards, and cleanliness. Product knowledge was excellent, and staff displayed a great rapport with the customers.
Commenting on the awards, Luke Hanlon, Managing Director, Centra said:
I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the managers and teams at O’Connor’s Centra Salthill for being named ‘Deli of the Year Overall’. Your expertise, excellence and unwavering commitment elevate convenience retailing to a world-class level. This store reflects everything Centra stands for – fresh food, friendly service and a genuine community connection. They set the benchmark for convenience retail in Ireland, showing how independent stores can make a powerful national impact. This recognition is a true mark of excellence within our industry – well done to all involved.
O’Connor’s Foodstore was founded by Michael’s father William, affectionally known as Billy, who set up the business in 1955. Michael said “At times like these you think of those that went before you and wonder what they’d think of it all. I think Billy and Anna would be very proud, they put their hearts and souls into the shop. This is their legacy.’
