The Cope, a prime business in Donegal, is so much more than a shop. A rural co-operative established in 1906 by a small group of people led by an extraordinary leader, “Paddy the Cope Gallagher”, who fought against considerable odds to create the foundation of what was to be an extremely successful business.
The Cope, as it is best known, has brought countless social and economic benefits to the people of West Donegal. It is now recognised as one of the leading retailers in Ireland, stocking more product lines than any other retailer in the North West.
The Cope has grown from humble beginnings in the rocky hills of the townland known as Cleendra, to the thriving business it is today and is becoming one of the largest employers over in the region. The Cope prides itself on its diverse product offering distributed through its omnichannel strategy, serving communities in the local region and beyond captured in a stunning recent video.
Watch here:
Testament to its focus on continuous improvement, innovation and a teamwork culture, The Cope Dungloe has recently been named as the ‘All Star Donegal Business of the Year’ for 2021/2022 by the All-Ireland Business Foundation, reached the Top 125 of the AIBMS Retail Excellence Store of the Year award, and a top 5 position for New Online Retailer of the Year at www.thecope.ie.
The Cope operates Foodstores located in Dungloe, Annagry, Falcarragh and Kincasslagh, together with Hardware & Homeware, Menswear, Sports, Ladieswear, Furniture & Flooring, IT Sales & Services, Home Improvement / Builders Providers and Agricultural Supplies which all operate from Dungloe.
The story of The Cope is one of triumph against almost impossible odds it has been acclaimed by the Irish Co-operative movement as a model that demonstrates the success a determined community can achieve and sustain with resilience and creativity. Set up by the community, for the community. The very essence of the Co-operative is community collaboration and engagement. The Cope Community Trust raises money for community projects and initiatives through the fundraising efforts of its own team. This ethos is embedded in its values and standards throughout the business. 
For more details you can visit www.thecope.ie
