Cork family-run car dealership celebrating 50th anniversary this year

Cork family-run dealership Finbarr Galvin Ltd is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, having grown from a one-bay garage in Bandon in 1975.

Founded by the late Finbarr Galvin and now led by his son, Justin Galvin, the dealership has many staff who have been with the business for 20, 30 or even 40 years. The dealership remains a family-run business and includes Finbarr Galvin’s brother Moss and his two sons, Anthony and Chris, in key roles.

“We’re incredibly proud to mark 50 years in business. We’ve seen enormous change - from fuel crises and economic recessions to electric vehicles and digital-first retailing,” Justin said.

He said that while technology has advanced, the core of the business remains the same: 

“I don’t believe customer expectations have changed, customers have always expected good service. If a person is looked after properly, they tend to return. That’s how we’ve built generations of loyalty.”

The dealership supports numerous clubs and charities, including local GAA, camogie, golf and soccer clubs as well as various charitable organisations, including My Lovely Horse Rescue.

As part of their anniversary celebrations, the dealership is planning an open week in October, giving new and old faces a chance to meet the team and mark the occasion.

Looking ahead, Justin Galvin said: 

“The car market will change more in the next five years than it has in the last 30. You can’t control the market. But you can adapt to it.

“Fifteen years ago, our mechanics were mainly repairing gearboxes and engines. Now, our top technicians are standing at laptops, connecting the car directly. It’s a new world.”

He said the most valued aspect of the business is the loyalty and dedication of its staff: “If someone is working here, they’re not working for us, they’re working with us. That family-style ethos makes a huge difference.”