End of an era for Letterkenny family business

by Louise Doyle

IT was the end of an era on Tuesday for one established Letterkenny business which has changed ownership after more than a decade.

Owner of Kelly’s Centra and Kelly’s Diner, Martin Kelly revealed he made the difficult decision to move on in a bid to focus on his family after 13 years serving the town.

Both Kelly’s Centra and Kelly’s Diner have been a staple in Letterkenny for many local people and visitors passing through the town.

Mr Kelly bought the store, taking it out of receivership in 2011 at a time when the financial crisis had a huge impact on local businesses.

The business went from strength to strength due to the dedication and hard work of Mr Kelly and his loyal and hardworking staff.

In November of last year, Mr Kelly was bestowed with the 2023 Letterkenny Chamber Business Person of the Year Award, in recognition of his achievements.

Kelly’s Centra/Kelly’s Diner has been taken over by Des and Martha Cosgrove. OASAM Foodstore LTD transferred ownership to MDM Supermarkets, who will be continuing the business.

Announcing the move on their own social media platform, Mr Kelly wrote: “As you may be aware Tuesday the 9th of July will be the last day for my wife and I serving our customers at the Mountain Top.

“After much reflection and consideration, we decided it was time for us to close this chapter.

“With some spare time on our hands, we will be spending it with our families.”

Mr Kelly said the business will “remain at the centre of the community for many more years to come with staff who will continue to provide you with exceptional service and a welcoming experience”.

Expressing his deepest gratitude for his staff and their “unwavering support” over the past 13 years, Mr Kelly said: “It has been an incredible journey serving the community and working alongside such brilliant people, winning many accolades and awards along the way.

He also praised his wife, Angie, and their children.

“My wife Angie, children, and I are truly grateful for the support, laughs, and exceptional effort our staff has given us in this time.

“Their contributions have been instrumental in the success of our business, and it has been a privilege to have worked alongside such a dedicated and talented team.

“As we now transition into new opportunities, we carry with us the fondest memories of our time serving the community, working with the other great businesses at the mountain top and the profound impact each of you has had on our lives.

“I’d like to also thank our suppliers without you we couldn’t deliver the great products we served everyday

“We want to express our gratitude to our loyal customers who shopped and dined with us and for all your support over the last 13 years, we are truly grateful to you.”

Wishing the new retailers all the very best for their future plans, Mr Kelly said:

“Finally, we would like to wish Des and Martha Cosgrove the new retailers, continued success at the Mountain Top in their future plans, I’ve no doubt they will continue to grow and improve the business.”

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