O’Keeffe’s Bakery
O’Keeffe’s Bakery is a Cork based food manufacturer producing bakery products including scones, donuts, tarts and sodas. Combining traditional food expertise with modern manufacturing, the company continues to invest in people, technology and sustainability. Its focus is on quality, efficiency and responsible growth, while strengthening its position in Ireland and developing export opportunities.
Sustainability is embedded in O’Keeffe’s operations and growth strategy. The bakery combines renewable energy, energy management and resource efficiency to reduce its overall environmental impact. ISO 50001, B Corp and Origin Green provide recognised frameworks for continual improvement, supported by practical investment in solar generation, energy monitoring and rainwater harvesting.
Their sustainability strategy focuses on three key pillars:
The company’s journey towards more efficient, sustainable and technology led food manufacturing
O’Keeffe’s takes a practical approach to sustainability across its manufacturing value chain, focusing on how resources enter the business, how efficiently they are used in production, and how the business can grow responsibly.
Energy is a central focus. The installation of 750 solar panels supports on-site renewable electricity generation, while machine-level monitoring of Significant Energy Users provides detailed insight into consumption and opportunities for improvement. Three energy audits and participation in two Energy Efficiency Obligation Scheme programmes have further supported the identification of energy saving opportunities. Achieving ISO 50001 formalises this commitment to continual improvement.
Water efficiency is also addressed through a rainwater harvesting system, while B Corp, Origin Green and BRC certification provide recognised frameworks for responsible business, sustainability and quality.
Looking ahead, O’Keeffe’s plans to increase exports over the next two years. This growth will be supported by investment in new, high-tech and energy efficient equipment, increasing production capacity, improving consistency and quality, and making work easier for employees. The company’s approach is to grow without losing sight of efficiency, sustainability, quality or its responsibility to people and the wider community.
