The Deli Store celebrates 20 years in Ballinasloe!

By Liam Cosgrove

Sean Magee, from the Deli Store in Dunlo St., was born in Portiuncula and lived in Athleague in Co. Roscommon during his younger days, where his father was a Garda. Sean attended Garbally College and studied Engineering for his third level education. He worked in Australia for many years before returning in 2000, to take over the business in Ballinasloe from his sister Carmel. He was excited to open up his store in the early 2000s. He described it as an up and coming town where loads of new, exciting factories were beginning to open up. He had done catering before and his background in it helped him in the decision towards buying the business off his sister Carmel.

The store benefits greatly from their takeaway service they offer. They operate as mainly a sandwich bar and coffee shop with a sit in service available also. There are loads of options available for any hungry customer. These range from filled baguettes, kesh and an assortment of pies. They specialise in large outdoor catering events and have catered for Aptar and St. Brigid’s throughout their time. They work alongside Portiuncula Hospital to help with catering. They also can cater for parties and large group gatherings such as twenty firsts, and indeed funerals For new businesses opening up or just trying to work in the town during this tough period Sean advises “Keep in there and stay at it during these difficult times. Talk to your bank managers in the town as they have been very understanding with me in the past. Do be honest with them, as they will try to do their best for you”.

He believes that the conclusion of the Town Enhancement works will help the town prosper again. “It looks well and a great job has been done”. He acknowledges that the works were in dire need before it began and many customers that come into the shop have been complimenting them. The main reason he is optimistic about the works is the ease it will bring on paid parking. This will attract a lot more people into the town, as he knows people who are located near Roscommon Town who shop in Ballinasloe instead due to the reliance of paid parking there. They recently opened up after being closed for three months due to the Covid-19 pandemic. It has not taken a toll on customers’ footfall as he assures them that they are currently taking all measures that are required to make the store and staff as safe as possible. To contact the Deli Store, ring them on 090 9645058.

They are open from 9am-5pm Monday to Saturday. They’re located on Dunlo Street, next to Hubert Dolan’s Electrical Shop.