Over the past 6 years The Merry Mill has been built into the brand it is today. Kevin, our founder, started this business as a farmer and entrepreneur, so he had a lot to learn about building and running a food production facility.

Kevin has taken part in many food and drinks programs to learn about the industry and have the best launchpad for the business.

Growing oats was the easy part, an annual occurrence on the farm. Sourcing the machinery was more challenging. The focus was on a niche gluten-free product from the start so there were no blueprints for building a micro mill or how to compete in the market. The most difficult part was building a brand and customer base. We are very lucky to have gained such loyal customers who have supported us from the beginning.

Kevin took part in food programs, entrepreneurship programs, and marketing programs.

Here is a clip from New Frontiers Program in IT Carlow to give you an insight into some of the tasks involved in starting a food business in Ireland -