West Cork Building Supplies Homevalue was one of the big winners at United Hardware’s 2024 United in Excellence Awards ceremony which took place at the Lyrath Estate Hotel in Kilkenny.
No stranger to winning prestigious accolades, the Clonakilty, Co. Cork-based building supplies firm was not only named as Munster’s Best Heating & Plumbing Store for the second time in three years, but also Best Heating & Plumbing Store in Ireland. The awards ceremony, which celebrates exceptional standards in retailing, was hosted by well-known hypnotist and magician Keith Barry.
“We were both surprised and delighted to receive the national award. We weren’t expecting it,” West Cork Building Supplies Homevalue general manager Colin McCarthy enthuses.
“It’s a testament to our team members who go above and beyond for our customers every day. We have forged great relationships with local professionals who trust our people to keep them up-to-date with the latest developments and products. We were thrilled to bring the two awards back to Clonakilty.
“We previously won Best Heating & Plumbing Store in Munster in 2022 and Best Paint Store in Munster in 2023, but this double topped everything.”
Commenting on the awards, Paul Candon, group CEO of United Hardware, said: “The United in Excellence Awards recognise and celebrate outstanding standards and customer service across the hardware industry.
“I extend my sincere congratulations to all the winners and nominees for their accomplishments. All our awardees have set new benchmarks in retailing excellence and have proven themselves to be the premier hardware stores in Ireland.”
The event involved the presentation of 35 awards over various categories such as paint, customer service, light hardware & DIY, merchanting and best regional store.
As part of the nomination process, every group member store across the entire network must comply with a strict set of criteria, to ensure that the highest possible standards are continuously upheld. This involved an assessment by Store Operations, which also included an independent mystery shopper audit by an external third party.
West Cork Building Supplies Homevalue is a leading builders’ providers, hardware and DIY supplier that has been serving the people of West Cork since first opening its doors in 1993. Founded by Jonas McCarthy – Colin’s father – the thriving family business employs a 30-strong team in Enterprise Business Park, Clonakilty.
The store has everything its customers need under one roof. From DIY products to full construction supplies and materials, its 35,000 sq. ft. premises includes a traditional trade counter, flooring, doors, bathroom showroom, homeware, workwear, power tool display areas as well as an award-winning paint shop which stocks the three main Irish brands, Dulux, Fleetwood and Colortrend. The Clonakilty outlet also supplies a wide range of building, agri, fuel and garden products.
“We have everything from an anchor to a needle,” Colin explains.
“Our large stock of heavy hardware makes us a one-stop shop for all your construction needs. We try to cater for everyone and are strong on plumbing supplies in particular. We’re constantly evolving and investing in our premises and staff. Our staff undergo regular training and upskilling to be the best they can be. It’s all about looking after the customers and being able to offer them the best advice.”
West Cork Building Supplies has been a member of Homevalue – or Associated Hardware as it was then known – for over 20 years. Homevalue is one of Ireland’s leading DIY, hardware and homeware groups with a network of over 90 guaranteed Irish accredited stores nationwide who are committed to providing the best range of products at the lowest price.
Whether you’re building, repairing, improving, furnishing or decorating your home, Homevalue has got you covered. Homeowners, DIY enthusiasts and professional tradespeople all know that Homevalue means real value and real expertise.
As Ireland’s leading buying and marketing group for builders’ merchants, DIY and home and garden retail stores, United Hardware’s primary aim is to offer its independent members combined buying power which will enable them to remain competitive in an environment dominated by large chains.
Further expansion is on the cards for West Cork Building Supplies Homevalue following its acquisition of Atkins DIY in the heart of Clonakilty. The historic town centre site boasts a four-storey eight-bay warehouse which will be initially used for storage.
As West Cork Building Supplies Homevalue continues to go from strength to strength, Jonas and Colin would like to take this opportunity to thank their customers and suppliers for their unwavering support as well as their expert team for their hard work and dedication. Opening hours are 8am to 5.30pm Monday-Friday and 8am to 1pm on Saturdays.
West Cork Building Supplies Homevalue
Enterprise Business Park,
Clonakilty,
Co. Cork,
P85 CT92.
Telephone: 023 883 4249
This article was published in Building Ireland Magazine, August, Vol 11 No 9
featured, West Cork Building Supplies Homevalue
