50 Years at the Heart of Irish Motoring
Finbarr
Galvin Ltd. a fixture of Cork city and county’s motor trade since 1975, is
celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
The
family-run dealership – currently Ireland’s Best ŠKODA Dealer and the second-largest
ŠKODA retailer in the country – has grown from a humble one-bay garage in
Bandon into one of Ireland’s most decorated dealerships.
Over
half a century, the company has weathered seismic shifts in the economy and
motoring landscape, all while maintaining the close-knit, customer-first
ethos on which it was founded.
Founded
by the late Finbarr Galvin in 1975, the business began with modest premises and
a straightforward philosophy: treat people fairly and do the job well. Now led
by his son, Managing Director Justin Galvin, the ŠKODA, CUPRA
and SEAT dealership continues to embody those principles, combining legacy
values with modern motoring standards.
“We’re
incredibly proud to mark 50 years in business,” says Justin Galvin. “We’ve seen
enormous change – from fuel crises and economic recessions to electric vehicles
and digital-first retailing. But through it all, our focus on genuine
service, community connection and looking after the people of Cork city and
county has never wavered.”
“This
anniversary is a celebration of the people and places that brought us here —
but it’s also the beginning of our next chapter,” Justin continues. “We’re
investing in what comes next, while holding on to the values that shaped us.”
Many of Finbarr Galvin’s team have been with the business for 20, 30 or
even 40 years. This continuity has helped to build lasting customer relationships
and supports a warm, community-rooted culture.
The dealership is deeply embedded in the local community in Bandon,
offering their support to numerous clubs and charities, including local GAA, Camogie,
Golf and Soccer Clubs as well as a number of charitable organisations,
including St. Michaels Centre.
The most valued
aspect of the business is their loyal and dedicated staff members who have created and maintained a welcoming,
supportive environment for both staff and customers to ensure a personal,
positive experience for everyone who comes through their doors.
“We’re
grateful to everyone who has supported us over the years – our team, our
customers, and our wider community. This 50th milestone is really a celebration
of them. And while we’re proud of where we’ve come from, we’re just as
excited for what’s ahead,
“At
the core of all this we believe one value remains more important than all and
that is customer service. Our team are fully dedicated to ensuring we
provide an unparalleled level of customer service, and although motoring trends
may change, this is a core value will always remain at the forefront of what
we do.
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