DEVELOPING THE CLONAKILTY BRAND
Clonakilty Whitepudding
In 1986, a Whitepudding was developed to complement the now successful Clonakilty Blackpudding, with the help of the food facility at University College Cork. The Clonakilty Whitepudding recipe is an original Twomey creation and enjoyed instant success from its introduction.
Sausages
In 1986, the Twomey family introduced a traditional sausage, originally called Blasta, and later renamed Ispíní. These were initially sold from the counter in the butcher shop. They were later included under the Clonakilty brand in 2001.
Rashers
The rashers were the last step to completing the Clonakilty Breakfast, when in 2003, two variants of Clonakilty Rasher were launched - Dry Cured and Oak Smoked. Later in 2007, the Mild Cure thicker cut rasher was introduced, later followed by a thick cut Smoked rasher in 2009.
Following on from tradition, these are also made from 100% Irish pork and contain no added water.
Bord Bia
Bord Bia were of enormous support in developing the Clonakilty brand. The inclusion of Clonakilty Black & Whitepudding on menus at corporate events, at tastings and generally exposing the brand to the rest of the country was very positive.
Awards
In 1989 at the Butcher’s Association National Awards both Clonakilty Blackpudding and Clonakilty Whitepudding won first prize in their respective categories which in turn gave them national recognition. Since then, Clonakilty products have been put forward for many awards, receiving several Great Taste Awards as well as many others.
Shows and Exhibitions
In 1989, with the help of Bord Bia, the Twomeys exhibited at the Cork Show. This show was for consumer tasting, and it was a huge success for them. People wanted to know where to get the products and so, they gained more small independent stores, in turn, adding to the van routes.
Many of the older consumers were delighted to rediscover the natural taste of the “good old days”. It was this kind of one to one contact with consumers that remained the main PR tool.
A very successful Spring show in the RDS followed, as consumers started to ask for Clonakilty Blackpudding and Whitepudding at their local supermarket.
In turn Superquinn and Quinnsworth made contact, seeking supply of the much sought after products. Next to call was Dunnes Stores! And so it continued.
And the rest is history.
Pictured left: Clonakilty Whitepudding, Clonakilty Sausages, Clonakilty Rashers, and a selection of awards received.
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