JJ Mahon & Sons - celebrating 75 years in business in Kildare

Kildare-based JJ Mahon & Sons, one of the largest independent drinks wholesalers in the country, is proudly celebrating its 75th year in business.

Established on the 7^th of December 1949 by the late John Mahon, the company began as a drinks distribution business in Kildare, initially serving the hospitality sector in Kildare and neighbouring counties.

In the early 1950s, John Mahon expanded the business by opening Mahon’s Pub, which quickly became a beloved fixture in Kildare Town.

Renowned for its traditional charm, the pub earned the title of County Kildare Pub of the Year in 2023, cementing its legacy as a local landmark.

Over the past 75 years, JJ Mahon & Sons has supplied customers with a wide range of products, including spirits, kegs, bottled beers, craft beers, soft drinks, snacks, barware and exclusive wines from world-renowned vineyards.

In its early years, the company bottled products, such as Phoenix Ale, Cherry’s Ale, Guinness Extra Stout and Jameson Whiskey.

In addition, they manufactured their own brands of soft drinks, Curra Orange and Mahon’s Lemonade.

Today, the company operates from its headquarters in Kildare Town, supplying the hospitality industry across Dublin, Leinster, and the Midlands.

Reflecting on the journey, David Mahon, Director of JJ Mahon & Sons, noted: “Over the years, we've seen drinking trends evolve, from the rise of craft beers and new spirits to the growing demand for non-alcoholic alternatives. Staying in tune with these shifts has been key to our success."

David also highlighted the importance of the company’s independence, saying: "Our flexibility in stocking a wide variety of brands and quickly adapting to customer needs sets us apart. It's a hallmark of our service that customers trust."

In 2023, JJ Mahon & Sons expanded its reach with the acquisition of Carrick-on-Shannon-based Drino Drinks, forming Connacht Bottlers. This new division now supplies the hospitality industry across the North West, West Midlands, and as far west as Galway City.

Kevin Mahon, CEO of JJ Mahon & Sons, described the acquisition as a significant milestone: “The establishment of Connacht Bottlers has allowed us to bring our renowned customer service ethos, which is a core element of our offering over 75 years to the Connacht region.”

With over 60 full-time employees across its Kildare Town and Carrick-on-Shannon locations, JJ Mahon & Sons continues to thrive. Kevin Mahon expressed heartfelt gratitude to the company’s loyal customers and dedicated team: "Our people are the backbone of our success. From knowing nearly every customer we serve to fostering relationships built on trust and service, our team represents the spirit of JJ Mahon & Sons."

As the company celebrates its remarkable legacy, it remains committed to evolving with the industry and delivering the same exceptional service that has defined it for 75 years.