Conor Middleton bid farewell to Centra Crosshaven last Saturday after 22 years

Conor began working part-time on the shop floor at 15 and progressively advanced to General Manager in 2009.

Looking back, he fondly recalls his years working with Bernard Lynch before Alex Barry took over last year. He has witnessed the shop's evolution from a convenience store to a modern supermarket, which he proudly considers "the best Centra in Ireland."

"After 22 years, there are so many people to thank," Conor told The Carrigdhoun, expressing gratitude to "management and staff, customers, and all the brilliant people in the community." As he prepares for his departure, he's been told he'll be missed but reassured that the shop is in excellent hands. He made special mention of co-workers Liz Gill and Bríd McGrath, who have not only made the shop an enjoyable place to work but whose diligent work ethic is a testament to the shop's continued success.

No two days were ever the same for Conor. He recounted memorable events such as receiving a call to cater for the King and Queen of Holland in 2019 and when Ireland’s Fittest Family filmed at Camden Fort Meagher. Beyond these high-profile projects, Conor has consistently been a vital force in numerous community initiatives and played a significant role in annual Triathlon.

Conor Middleton

Despite serving royalty, Conor finds his greatest job satisfaction in meeting former teenage staff members who worked through college and are now thriving in fields like law, business, and science, who credit Centra for playing a significant role in their success.

Conor was once told that his role as general manager was to provide solutions, a description he has found to be accurate. "Whether you're helping customers decide what to get for dinner, or trying to help staff sort out their hours, it's a job very much that's about providing solutions."

For Conor, the boundaries between his professional and personal life have blended seamlessly. He worked alongside his sister, Tracy, and his late father, Con. He also met his wife, Kate, within the same sphere, the highlight of his years in Centra.

As Conor's Centra Crosshaven chapter comes to end, he, Kate together with their children Jack and Ava are looking forward to their next adventure. 

Everyone at The Carrigdhoun would like to wish Conor and his family the very best of luck!