Rhode family bakery named Blas na hÉireann finalist for award-winning jam

Rhode bakery Heaveys 'The Bogs Dollops' has been named a finalist in the prestigious Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards for its handcrafted raspberry jam.

The Blas na hÉireann final awards for 2025 will be presented on Friday, October 3, in Dingle as part of a longer festival weekend from Thursday, October 2 to Sunday, October 5.

Founded by husband-and-wife team Ronan Heavey and Mairéad Heavy O'Connor, the bakery was built from a derelict premises, and opened its doors in 2024.

With determination, creativity, and the support of local tradespeople, the couple transformed it into a thriving hub at the heart of their community.

Their raspberry jam, praised for its flavour and authenticity, reflects their ethos of taking simple, traditional recipes and perfecting them with care.

It follows a string of accolades already earned for their scones and their award-winning brown bread, made from Mairéad’s mother’s recipe, as well as recognition as Irish Restaurant Innovators of the Year.

Coming from a strong farming background in Laois, Mairéad highlighted the deep connection between land, food and family:

“Farmers are the foundation of Ireland’s food story. The beauty of both food and family, and the importance of these marrying, is at the heart of our ethos. We built this for our little girls, to show them that anything is possible, but also to never forget your roots. We all came from the land, and we would be nothing without it. Ireland is one of the richest lands in the world; it bears the very best fruit. Our family business is proud to showcase that."

"To be recognised on a national stage by Blas na hÉireann is a dream come true. Our raspberry jam began as something I made for our family and then for our community. To see it celebrated at this level shows the power of keeping things simple, honest, and made with excellent farm ingredients."

The bakery has quickly become a cornerstone of village life, while also attracting attention well beyond Offaly. This national recognition underlines how family values, innovation, and creativity can drive success in Ireland’s vibrant food industry.