Longford family turn their passion for honey into a thriving business

A Longford family have turned their passion for honey into a thriving business.

Pat and Fiona McCormack of Farmhouse Bees and Trees Ltd in Abbeyshrule are one of 25 new food and drink producers now launching their products in selected SuperValu stores across Ireland, following their completion of The Food Academy programme.

This marks an exciting new chapter for The Farmhouse Bees and Trees Ltd as they bring premium raw Irish honey to selected local SuperValu stores. 

From a single hive in 2019, Pat and Fiona have built a vibrant business championing biodiversity and eco-friendly practices all while delivering pure, natural flavours straight from Ireland’s wildflowers.

Pat and Fiona said, “We started with one hive and a love for nature, and it’s grown into something much bigger. The Food Academy has been vital in helping us turn our passion into a business, giving us the confidence and tools to bring our honey to more people while staying true to our values of sustainability and biodiversity.”

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The Farmhouse Bees and Trees is a family-run business which was founded in 2022 by horticulturists Pat and Fiona McCormack.

Specialising in raw Irish honey, pure beeswax candles, and native trees, the company is rooted in sustainability and the conservation of Ireland’s native honeybee. 

Their honey, coarsely filtered to preserve natural qualities, is harvested seasonally from wildflower-rich landscapes. They also grow native trees and use eco-friendly practices and packaging throughout. 

The launch of products from The Farmhouse Bees and Trees Ltd in selected SuperValu stores highlights the growing impact of the Food Academy in shaping Ireland’s food innovation landscape. 

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The Food Academy, now in its 12th year, is a partnership between SuperValu and the Local Enterprise Office & is the only accredited producer development programme in Ireland, from Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin). 

Luke Hanlon Managing Director SuperValu said: “SuperValu proudly supports local Irish businesses, working closely with Food Academy participants to drive strong product launches and customer engagement. As the food sector evolves, the Food Academy remains at the forefront – fostering innovation, empowering entrepreneurs, and building a more resilient, sustainable industry. It’s more than a programme; it’s a movement shaping the future of Irish food. We look forward to seeing this year’s participants make their mark and continue Ireland’s rich tradition of food and drink innovation.”

Also read: Longford horticulture student a recipient for the SETU Una McDermott Travel Bursary