Being a family affair is a common trope in many businesses, but unlike most, Fabrigate Ireland can boast five generations and over a century of experience.
Although the Armagh-based metal works and manufacturing firm was established as O’Callaghan’s back in 1907, today, despite its rebrand, the O’Callaghan name is no less prominent.
Operating from their site on Irish Street in the city, the firm has gone from strength-to-strength through the years, building a business fit for the 21st century.
The business is headed up by brothers Michael and Mark O’Callaghan, who took on the running fully after the passing of their father John two years ago.
They deal in all kinds of wrought iron work and steel fabrication, with their ‘bread and butter’ work being gates, railings, balconies, staircases and restorations.
Gates can be made by hand to any shape, size or design. They’re also galvanised and coated to the customer’s specified colour.
For Michael, the strong family link has enabled the old-style tried-and-tested methods to be brought into a modern era, alongside the community ethos.
“It’s a family business that has come through the generations,” he said.
“My father did it, my grandfather did it and my great grandfather did it. My father started out at around 11-years-old before it came to my older brother and myself.
“From starting out shoeing horses to now making wrought iron works, the business has tweaked slightly over the years.”
He added: “We still try as much as possible to do it in the old blacksmithing way. It means we can make handmade pieces to incorporate into gates, railings and one-off items.”
The local element also means the business has consolidated itself in the Armagh area.
“We’re lucky enough that probably a good 80% of our work is in a ten mile radius of Armagh city, so it’s very locally based.
“The O’Callaghan name has been respected for a long time.”
Fabrigate Ireland offer free quotations and advice for all jobs, big or small. Get in contact today on 02837 524647 or at info@fabrigateireland.com. You can also visit their website at fabrigateireland.com.
