Matilda’s Artisan Bakery

Best Food and Drink finalist - Monaghan Business & Tourism Awards

Tell us about your business and team:

Matilda’s Artisan Bakery a third-generation family business operating for over 100 years. It first began as a butcher shop in 1925 and has evolved greatly over the years and eventually transitioned completely to a bakery, café, and deli in 2013. In Carrickmacross, Matilda’s team members bake all their produce on site, by hand, and on a daily basis. Products range from genuine 72-hour fermented sourdough, freshly made salads, custom cakes, barista quality espresso-based coffee, and a wide selection of pastries.

Describe the best thing about your service:

“The best thing about our business is our staff,” says business owner Stephen Ward.

They are the smiling faces behind the counter. “I believe that a friendly welcome, combined with great service plays a huge roll in how the public view your business,” he says. “We always tell our staff to greet customers and speak to them kindly.”

What’s the best business advice you’ve ever been given?

Don’t worry too much about what others are doing. Focus on what you are doing, and aim to improve your standards. Then you will become the trend setter and others will follow you. Believe in yourself!

What does the future hold?

We are very fortunate to be able to constantly evolve the business as the years go by. There are two areas we look forward to developing. “We are actively developing the wholesale aspect of the bakery, which allows us to supply breads to other retail and hospitality businesses,” Stephen says.

“We are also hopeful that we further expand the café in order to provide a seating area with the possibility of introducing breakfast, lunch, or evening dining options.”