Offaly company with absolutely brilliant name takes home prestigious award

A small family-run bakery and café in Offaly, has achieved national acclaim at this year’s Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards, taking home Silver in the Preserves Category for its handcrafted Raspberry Jam.

Based in the heart of Rhode village, the brilliantly named Bogs Dollops’ jam was awarded Silver, placing it between two Tesco’s Finest entries — a truly extraordinary feat for a one-of-a-kind local producer. The Bogs Dollops’ handcrafted raspberry jam took home top honours, standing out in the fiercely competitive preserves category — and becoming the only raspberry jam nationwide to be crowned in its class this year.

“To win Silver, right between two of Tesco’s Finest, is honestly mind-blowing,” said owner Mairéad Heavey. “We’re just a tiny family business working from the heart of our village, making everything by hand. To be recognised on the same level as a multinational brand is something we never imagined possible.”

Founded in 2024 by Mairéad and Ronan Heavey, The Bogs Dollops has quickly become the heart of Rhode, known for its award-winning scones, bakes, and Badger & Dodo barista coffee. The business has already earned recognition by the Restaurant Awards as Leinster Innovator of the Year 2025. Mairéad was also nominated as Local Businesswoman of the Year by Goss.ie, and the café was proudly named by The Dave Moore Show on Today FM.

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Behind the scenes, Mairéad credits her husband Ronan, who she says keeps everything running — from the early-morning prep to the late-night clean-downs.

"This win is for us both, our two little girls Charlotte & Willow-Jane and for our lovely community, who’ve supported us since day one."

Held annually in Dingle, Co. Kerry, the Blas na hÉireann Awards are Ireland’s premier food honours, celebrating the very best in Irish produce. This year’s competition saw thousands of entries, judged blind by top industry experts.

From their little bakery kitchen in Offaly to standing beside one of the world’s biggest retailers, The Bogs Dollops’ win is a proud reminder of what Irish family businesses can achieve — with heart, heritage, and a spoonful of love.

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