Derry based learning disability support organisation takes over local business
Destined are the new owners of Framed to Perfection and intend to run the business as a social enterprise that will re-invest all profits to provide services for people with learning disabilities
Destined the learning disability support organisation based in Derry are the new owners of Framed to Perfection, the picture framing business that was established by Paul McGilloway who recently retired.
Destined has re-located the business to its North West Learning Disability Centre at 1, Foyle Road and intends to operate the business as a social enterprise that will re-invest all profits to provide services for people with learning disabilities.
Paul has provided training to Destined staff over the last months as part of the handover of the business and Destined is fortunate that some of his staff transferred with the business as well.
The business will be formally launched by the Mayor Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr on Tuesday, March 4 at 1.00pm in Destined’s premises in an event that will include speakers including Amanda Johnston, Social Enterprise NI, Brian O’Neill, Enterprise NW and Paul McGilloway.
Charlene Keenan, Destined General Manager speaking before the launch said: “This is a very important initiative for Destined as it will allow us to provide training and employment opportunities for our members in a supportive environment and in these times of austerity for community and voluntary organisations it will provide a welcome revenue stream to support our activities.”
Commenting on the impact of the new social enterprise, Brian O'Neill, Director of Development and Enterprise at Enterprise North West, said: "We are delighted to congratulate Destined on the launch of their new social enterprise. Having worked closely with them over the years, we have seen first-hand their commitment to making a real difference in the community. This new initiative is a testament to their hard work, innovation and commitment to creating lasting impact. We wish them every success in this exciting new chapter."
Paul McGilloway, who will be one of the speakers at the launch, said: “It’s been a privilege to serve the people of Derry and the North West area for 40+ years of providing picture framing to the most loyal of customers. Hoping now you can still support the people at Destined as they carry the mantle in the picture framing for all.”
Amanda Johnston (Head of Business Development) Social Enterprise NI welcomed this fantastic news by Destined.
She said: “It is brilliant to see that the diversification of their business is by taking over/purchasing another established business, which has a defined market and customer base.
“Rather than starting something from scratch, that isn’t a tried and tested business model. This sends out great messages to other sectors showing how striving the social enterprise sector is.
The Mayor of Derry, Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr offered her congratulations to everyone at Destined on their acquisition of Framed to Perfection.
She said: “The move means the public in the North West can continue to avail of the beautiful handmade gifts and framing service they provide following the recent retirement of Paul McGilloway.
It will also allow members of Destined to be part of this thriving and popular local business and will create a much-needed revenue stream to allow them to continue the key work they do in empowering people with learning difficulties and promoting social inclusion.
“Good luck to everyone at Destined in their new venture and to Paul in his deserved retirement.”