Donegal Bees was founded in 2013 by Thomas Ellis, and later joined by Áine Curran in 2015, we recently met both Thomas and Áine, and were fascinated by their unique business story! Based in Glencolmcille, Donegal Bees are home to the largest stock of beekeeping supplies online and are Ireland’s sole supplier of the traditional CDB hive. Employing a team of up to 22 at the height of the season.
Thomas started out by making CDB hives in a small shed for some neighbours and friends, and over time realised that it was quite expensive for the average beekeeper to purchase high-quality beehives and beekeeping equipment in Ireland; identifying a meaningful gap in the market – Donegal Bees was born!
Áine joined in 2015 bringing with her an extensive expertise in customer service, accounting and systems management – both Thomas and Áine are passionate about the environment and bees, especially the conservation of the Native Irish Black Bee. Donegal Bees’ main goal is to make beekeeping equipment affordable for everyone – in order to sustain the beekeeping culture in Ireland – which is vitally important to our environment.
The Donegal Bees team manufactures high-quality beehives from their Donegal base, sourcing the best quality frames, foundation, and other beekeeping supplies for their customers across Ireland and the UK – Toni went to visit their impressive premises.
Donegal Bees offer a wide variety of hives and hive parts – their most popular being the National Hive, which is used by beginners and experienced beekeepers all over Ireland. Donegal Bees supply hive types, hive packs and starter kits and all specialist and beginner equipment accessories for the budding or experienced beekeeper – as well as gifts and jewellery and a Family Fun Pack which is an interactive, educational pack that helps to teach children not to be afraid of our friendly bees!
Donegal Bees also make an annual donation to Bees for Development Ethiopia, a charity that enables families in the developing country to avail of an independent living from beekeeping.
Visit the Donegal Bees website to learn more and get started at any level or view the beautiful beeswax based gift items, all available to purchase on www.donegalbees.ie and www.irishwildflower.com you can also check out @donegalbees on social media or contact via 0749710140 We wish the Donegal Bees team continued success are are delighted to welcome them to Letterkenny Chamber.
