Last Saturday, Bandon Co-op was a hive of activity as they welcomed customers to the grand opening of their new garden centre, Gairdín. Although it was raining, the weather didn’t stop the fun with their top of the range, covered garden centre, with 2 weatherproof tunnels. Upon entering the garden centre you enter a dry tunnel with all your outdoor needs from solar lights, to garden tools, to pots and ornaments. Then, you find the real beauty in the all new Gairdín Mór which is a gardener’s heaven. The quality of the plants, the colour and the variety are obvious as soon as you enter. With 2 retractable roofs, allowing for air flow and weather protection, along with the sub-irrigation watering system showcasing picture perfect plants.
The sub-irrigation watering system uses on-site harvested rainwater, ensuring plants are cared for with sustainable watering system.
And the Gairdín was buzzing on Saturday with a huge turnout of both loyal and new customers eager to experience this new offering to Bandon town. With visitors of all ages there was something to cater for all. RED FM were on hand to entertain everyone, whilst Paw Patrol’s Chase and Marshall greeted all of their loyal young fans.
CEO Eilís Mahon and Retail Manager Michael O’Driscoll both welcomed everyone on the day before Store Manager Donal Deasy and Chairperson Vincent O’Donovan presented cheques to both Kilbrittain National School Autism Unit and Cancer Connect, for €500 each. Totally €1,000 charity donations on the day.
Sean Brown, Garden Centre Manager and special guest Peter Dowdall officially opened Gairdín, cutting the unique ivy ‘ribbon’ to a huge applause of celebrations.
Upon entry to Gairdín Mór, there was a choice of kid’s activities from bee keeping with Bee Wild with Kate, planting with Gairdín gardening experts, face painting and glitter tattoos, and range of refreshments for all ages. Peter Dowdall shared his knowledge with his talk on ‘How to choose the right plants for your garden’, followed by Q&A.
West Cork Coffee, who only last week launched their new coffee offering at Bandon Co-op had a busy morning serving coffees to visitors and showcasing their new eat-in and takeaway coffee container upon entering the store.