MBTAs: Who has done enough to earn the Best in Customer Service Award?
Quality service in Athboy since 1908
Brogans Butchers
About…
Brogans Butchers which is located on Athboy's Main Street has served the needs of Athboy and the surrounding areas for 113 years.
It is one of the few authentic family butchers left in the country and as an EC approved abattoir, supplied by its own farm which has been the backbone of the business for generations.
Brogans Butchers was first established by a young Michael Brogan who came to Athboy from Trim in 1908.
Passed down through the generations, it is now owned and run by his great grandson Michael along with his wife Lisa, Michael’s father Junior and uncle Niall along with Declan Tuite, Anthea Kerrane, Hazel Gargan and Kris McNally. Brogans prides itself on its personal service offering and this has been recognised by various awards over the years including, a well-deserved mention in the 'McKenna Guide' Best in Ireland list, Butchery Excellence, Small Butcher Shop of the Year 2018-19 and Meath Business and Tourism Awards 2019, "Best Local and Artisan Food Producer"
Since 1908 Brogans have always put their customers’ needs first and hopes to continue this for many generations to come.
Lessons learned from the last 18 months
Having been one of the fortunate businesses that was permitted to be fully open during the various lockdowns was tough in its own way juggling restrictions, staff and suppliers. The thing that Brogans probably took most from the last 18 months is when things get back to ‘normal’ to take opportunities to go places and to see things when possible and not put things off.
A safe and fun environment for children and their families
Mother Hubbards Childcare
About…
Mother Hubbards Childcare was established in 1996 with one service on Blessington Street, Dublin and has now expanded to four services in Meath and Co Dublin. Karen McGovern, a local Meath lady is the founder and owner of the company.
She has built Mother Hubbards into the well-known and respected service it is today with hard work, dedication and a very hands-on approach. It currently has 62 employees across our four centres, some of whom have been with them for 17 years – a note which stands to itself in the sector.
Mother Hubbards Childcare has been providing a caring, safe and fun environment for many families and their children in the community over the years.
Lessons learned from the last 18 months
The last 18 months has been extremely difficult on families, parents, children, and businesses. When the business closed its doors last March, they honestly didn’t know if they would open them again or what was down the line for the company.
Children went from days full of peer groups, routine, playing with friends, messy play, arts and crafts, dress up and outdoor play to isolation which was an extremely difficult transition.
Mother Hubbards made the decision to do what it could for families from home. We knew as childcare professionals how important stimulation and play was for all children so employees began to send parents their children’s favourite activities and games with simple how-to guides. It also began organising zoom calls so that the children could see the familiar faces of their carers.
A time of change and readjustment for everyone. For Karen and Mother Hubbards, the main concern throughout has been for everyone’s safety and well-being.
Looking after their loyal customers always
Our Salon
About…
Our Salon by Derek and Fearghal specialises in taking care of all hair needs in the heart of Ratoath to give everyone a unique and unforgettable salon experience.
The journey will begin with a friendly welcome by front of house Fearghal, continued with a professional consultation with a chosen stylist, followed by colour, highlights, cut or even a makeover.
Customers get expert tips, tricks and tutorials along with customised hair care products to better care for their hair at home. Our Salon opened its doors in August 2019 and a year later it was nominated for “Best Hair Salon” at the Meath Style Awards 2020.
Through the rollercoaster of the past few years, Derek and Fearghal have adapted well from cutting on the salon floor, to setting up and running a business online. Its website oursalon.ie has given the business a platform to connect with customers and a wider audience.
With its on-line store live, it has offered in-store collections, shipping worldwide and complimentary local home delivery. The team’s future ambition is to continue to strive with its customer service, gain new clients, continue to train and expand the team.
Lessons learned from the last 18 months
Being closed for several months due to lockdown taught Derek & Fearghal many things.
As a relatively new business it has seen just how important customers are and how their continued support along with building friendships along the way has given the Our Salon team the drive to push the business forward and to continue to be there for the customers, as much as they remained loyal.