Community drive at Bradys of Arva

MEET OUR FINALISTS: BEST BEST FAMILY BUSINESS

For more than six decades, Bradys of Arva has been a cornerstone of motoring and community life. Founded in 1961 by the late Philip Brady, the Volkswagen dealership has grown into one of Ireland’s longest-serving VW retailers, while never losing sight of its roots as a family-run enterprise. Today, the business is proudly led by Philip’s son, Padraig, who continues the Brady family legacy with the same dedication instilled in him by his father.

Padraig, who has managed the dealership for the past 25 years, has always emphasised that Brady’s success lies in the close-knit values of family, community, and loyal staff. “We pride ourselves on customer satisfaction and long-standing relationships,” he says, noting that some families have been buying cars from Brady’s for over 50 years, travelling from as far as Dublin to do business in Arva.

The community aspect runs deep. Padraig’s wife, Coliosa, is treasurer of the local GAA club; while his brother Niall and Padraig himself have both served as chairmen. Brady’s of Arva is also the main sponsor of the GAA club, continuing a tradition of community support that began with Philip Brady, who was active with both the Cavan County Board and in Croke Park. Volunteering, Padraig stresses, is “vital to the fabric of the community” — without it, local clubs, fundraisers, and events simply would not happen.

The Brady family’s involvement goes beyond sport. Padraig has served as chairman of the Arva Development Association, helping organise everything from the town’s Christmas lights and Santa events to tidy towns projects, local bingo nights, and summer festivals. He also sits on the board of St Mary’s National School.

The business is very much a family affair. Padraig’s four teenage children are already active in the dealership, spending their summers helping at the forecourt, washing cars, greeting customers, and learning the ropes of the trade. “They were reared into it, just like I was,” Padraig reflects.

The dealership’s loyal staff, some of whom have been with Brady’s for over 50 years, remain a key part of the story and a core part of the wider Bradys of Arva and Volkswagen family. Their commitment, alongside the family’s hands-on involvement, has carried the business through decades of change in the motor industry.

As Bradys of Arva approaches its 64th anniversary in 2025, one thing is certain: This is more than just a car dealership — it’s a family institution, woven into the very heart of its community.

CONTACT US