Joyce’s Supermarket Knocknacarra is celebrating after it was recognised for the high quality of its food at the annual Checkout magazine’s Best in Fresh awards on July 24.
The outlet won Ireland’s Best Deli Offering award, and was also shortlisted in the final four of three other categories; Excellence in Fresh Food Retailing for a Supermarket, Best Non-Affliated Fresh Food Retailer, and Best Value For Money Fresh Food Retailer. The shortlistings were a record for Joyce’s, as no other outlet was shortlisted in four categories. Hundreds of stores across Ireland were audited by independent judges in the lead up to the awards. Director Pat Joyce believes that the achievement proves the high standards at Joyce’s Supermarket.
“It wouldn’t be possible without the customers, dedicated staff, and suppliers,” he said. “We’re thrilled to bits. This highlights the excellent offerings at Knocknacarra, as well as our other stores in Tuam, Athenry, and Headford.”
It was only Joyce’s second year in the competition. Entering for the first time in 2011, it scooped the prestigious overall prize as Ireland’s Best in Fresh Food Retailer. Its success continued this year, and the store is confident that the future is bright.
Joyce’s group fresh food manager Mark Spitzer said the awards recognised the company’s dedication to fresh food and quality.
“We at Joyce’s are extremely proud of our team for the effort and dedication they put in every day to follow through on our fresh food ideas, concepts and product range,” he said. “We strive to consistently offer the highest standards of quality and service to our customers, and we constantly are on the look out for innovative ideas in fresh food offering that separates Joyce’s from all other supermarkets.”
There is a wide selection of delicious fresh food available in store. Foodies will be heaven with the large array of farmhouse and continental cheeses, perfect for after-dinner or with an evening glass of wine. For every kind of salad imaginable, there is the oil and vinegar bar. Customers can visit the officially-named Best Deli in Ireland where they can choose from the new shrimp bar, cooked and cold meats, pate, salami, and pizza. Joyce’s deli is home to the largest range of anti-pasti in Ireland. If you are looking for a hearty dinner without the hassle of cooking, enjoy a carvery lunch, prepared by the store’s in-house chefs. Joyce’s also runs a catering service, which offers high quality food at good value prices.
The supermarket has its own range of ready-made meals, which are delicious and filling as well as convenient. There is a range of restaurant quality, authentic Indian cuisine.
Joyce’s Supermarket is also dedicated to promoting produce from local suppliers. According to Pat Joyce, the company is committed to supporting new start-ups and artisan food makers.
“There are many new companies that have been first brought to the market by Joyce’s,” he said. “It’s a great chance to get their products out there.”
Local suppliers include Goyas of Kirwans. Expert bakers Emer and Audrey are passionate about their products and make everything from scratch. Cakes and savouries from this supplier are made with years of experience, passion, and dedication. Fans of sweet treats are spoilt for choice. The Old Barracks also supplies Joyce’s with bakery and confectionery.
A healthy diet is easy to maintain as the supermarket has an extensive fruit and vegetable department. There is a wide range of the best quality produce at low prices. Meat lovers are well catered for, with expert butchers in store to give advice on every aspect of meat selection, from cooking to cut. Joyce’s sells good quality meat from local suppliers.
Fish is growing increasingly popular, and healthy, tasty, and versatile options are available at the fishmonger counter. Instore experts will fillet, bone, pin, or skin your cut of fish, and advise you on the best methods of cooking.
“In what is a hugely difficult economic climate, Irish retailers are always looking at those who do things different within the industry and for that, it is no wonder that a lot of our fresh food concepts have been copied by our competitors,” said Pat Joyce. “But at Joyce’s our customers, who are at the core of our business, will be delighted to note that we will always strive to better ourselves and be the best in the country when it comes to fresh food, and we have some great things on the horizon.”
With more than 30 years’ experience in the retail industry, Pat Joyce’s passion for the business is far from dimming. He said Joyce’s has plans for further expansion and strengthening the relationship with its suppliers.
“Joyce’s is here to stay,” he said.
With its strong emphasis on customer service, local suppliers, and good value, Joyce’s will remain an invaluable resource to the people of Galway.
