Despite the recent industry challenges outlined in Fáilte Ireland’s newly published report, the Cornstore Group, encompassing the Cornstore and Coqbull restaurant chains across Limerick and Cork, enters 2024 with renewed strength under the leadership of its founder, Padraic Frawley.
Padraic Frawley continues to head up the Cornstore Group, following a period of management by his executive team, Mike Ryan, Linda Frawley, Chris O’Meara and Caroline Ingle, as the group tackled the recent challenging period of administration head-on. Emerging with newfound funding and strategic restructuring, the company has regained stability and has retained over 200 staff, some of whom have been with the groups since they opened.
Established in 2000 with Aubars in Limerick, the group opened Cornstore restaurants in Cork in 2007 and Limerick in 2008, boasting a seating capacity of up to 200 people and specialising in aged beef, local seafood, and award-winning cocktails. Meanwhile, Coqbull has been serving consumers since its inception in Cork city in 2014, followed by a second location in Limerick city in 2015 and a third in Castletroy, Limerick in 2019.
Padraic Frawley, CEO and Founder of Cornstore and Coqbull, said: “It has been a challenging few months for the Cornstore Restaurant group, but I am extremely grateful to Linda Frawley and my Senior Management Team, who have been stoic in keeping positive and remaining resilient during an already tough economic climate for our industry. Together with my executive team and with new funding in place, we look forward to growing from strength to strength this year and beyond, with expansion plans and refurbishments in the pipeline.”
Padraic expressed optimism about the future, stating, “As we mark over 24 years in operation, we look forward to the next decade and beyond. I would like to thank the local communities in both Limerick and Cork for their never-ending support and we will continue our commitment to providing great food and atmosphere in all of our restaurants.”
Mike Ryan, Director of Cornstore Restaurant and Coqbull restaurants, emphasised the importance of supporting local: “Going the extra mile for our customers has always been a number one priority for us and we will continue to support and give back to the community who has kept us going through the difficult times. Sourcing produce locally is not only integral to our ethos but also resonates with our customers, reinforcing our commitment to the growth and sustainability of local food companies in Limerick, Cork, and beyond.”
With a diverse customer base ranging from casual diners to corporate clients, the Cornstore and Coqbull restaurants continue to thrive. Exciting events and menu updates are on the horizon, including a Spring Fashion Show and special menus for upcoming occasions such as Mother’s Day and Easter. For more information or to book the Cornstore and Coqbull, visit www.cornstore.ie and www.coqbull.com
