Celebrating three decades of Anne Macs at Castleisland
Circle K’s Anne Macs at Castleisland had something to celebrate over the bank holiday weekend – 30 years since the forecourt opened over the bank holiday weekend back in 1993.
Some places – and some people – are worth celebrating. More than four years after her sad death in 2019 – just before the refurbishments and the launch of the new shop she had overseen were completed, Anne McGaley passed away. Yet it’s clear that she has left a legacy of a thriving forecourt business that remains the heart and soul of the Castleisland community, that will forever be known simply as Anne Macs.
Speaking to Anne’s husband Declan McGaley about the landmark birthday of Anne Mac’s Circle K in Castleisland, County Kerry – two words came through loud and clear – family and community.
Celebrations were held on the site over the bank holiday weekend in early June – including reduced prices on Food, Coffee and Fuel.
Evolution of the shop
It started as Statoil with six staff (family and a few locals), before becoming Topaz with ten staff.
In 2019, Anne Mac’s joined the Circle K family and expanded to 16 staff – all either family members or local people.
One thing is clear – family is close to the heart of Declan, and their long serving staff are just as much a part of the family, with close knits ties that now span decades.
The forecourt first opened for business on the June bank holiday weekend in 1993. Anne was pivotal to building up the business – until she took ill in 2012.
“There’s so much goodwill and friendship among staff and customers. Young people who looked after the pumps over the years are still fondly remembered – it really is a community hub” said Declan.
Smooth running
Manager Tracy has worked for the family for twenty years now – and is pivotal to the smooth running and success of the business. Declan explains how she came to work with them two decades ago – a friend of one of his daughters, she started working there and has been at the core of the business ever since.
Tracy recalls Anne McGaley with great fondness.
“She truly was the heart and soul of the business. Brilliant hard-working woman and great fun. We miss her so much. We have a photo of her behind the counter, it is so lovely to have and it’s nice sometimes because it reminds you of funny stories with her which Myself and Maureen remember and it’s good to pass the stories onto the new staff and also her grandchildren,” said Tracy.
See the full interview and article in the next edition of Ireland’s Forecourt & Convenience Retailer – coming soon!
