Connolly’s Eggs Lands ‘Dream’ Partnership Supplying M&S

Marks & Spencer (M&S) has announced a new partnership with Monaghan-based Connolly’s Eggs, a leading Free-Range producer, strengthening their commitment to supporting Irish producers and the local economy.

Building on its local sourcing success, M&S has officially launched Connolly’s Free Range Large Eggs across all 16 M&S stores in Ireland. This transition introduces premium Irish produce to customers nationwide, backed by the highest industry standards including Bord Bia, DAFM, Organic Trust, alongside a AA+ rating for Brand Reputation through Compliance Global Standards (BRCGS) accreditation.

The story of Connolly’s Eggs is a true testament to Irish family grit. Founded in the early 1990s by married couple John-Joe and Veronica Connolly with a modest flock of just 300 hens, the business remains a hands-on family affair. Decades later, John-Joe and Veronica are still heavily involved, working alongside their sons Kevin and Brian to maintain the high standards that have made them industry leaders.

Based in the heart of Monaghan, the Connollys manage every stage of the process, rearing chickens from day-old chicks to end-of-lay. Their site features four purpose-built, state-of-the-art facilities designed specifically around the welfare of the hens, ensuring they have ample floor space and unrestricted access to the lush local pasture.

The Connolly family are no strangers to pioneering standards; in 2000, they became the first flock in Ireland to be commercially certified by the Organic Trust. Today, their operation is a masterclass in quality control, boasting BRCGS approval and full Department of Agriculture inspection. Despite their growth, the "small business" feel remains, with brothers, sisters, and uncles still walking the factory floor every day to ensure every egg meets the family’s high quality standards.

The partnership was sparked by a meeting at the Balmoral Show in Northern Ireland, following years of the family hoping to supply the trusted retailer. For Kevin Connolly, seeing his family’s name on M&S shelves is the culmination of a lifelong ambition.

Kevin Connolly of Connolly’s Eggs said:

“We are ecstatically proud to have secured the M&S market and to see our new packaging in-store. For a family business that started over 30 years ago with just 300 hens, supplying to Marks & Spencer is a bit of a dream come true."

"Irish people are rightfully proud of where their food comes from, and there is a huge appetite for local produce. We’ve always believed we have a first-class product, and it’s a fantastic feeling to know that M&S customers across Ireland will be bringing Connolly’s eggs home.”

Laura Harper, Trading Director Ireland and Northern Ireland at Marks & Spencer, added:

“At M&S, we are committed to supporting Irish farmers and sourcing locally whenever possible. Connolly’s Eggs stood out to us not only for their incredible family heritage and passion but for their uncompromising standards in animal welfare and quality. We know our customers look for the Bord Bia accreditation when they shop with us, and we are delighted to welcome Kevin, Brian, and the whole Connolly family into the M&S supply chain.”

The new range of Connolly’s Free Range Large Eggs is available now in M&S stores across Ireland.