End of an era, as Daniel Doherty’s Bakery to shut after almost 150 years in Moville

In a major blow, one of Donegal’s most iconic bakeries is set to close at the end of this month.

Staff at Daniel Doherty’s in Moville have been informed that the bakery will cease operations and shut down on December 31.

The business has been a fixture in Inishowen for almost 150 years, having first opened in Moville way back in 1880 – but, sadly, the year 2026 will signal the end.

Currently, around thirty staff are employed at Daniel Doherty’s Glencrow plant, including bakery operatives, delivery drivers, administration, and management.

Reports had previously swirled that the bakery could be earmarked for closure, and it has now been confirmed.

Moville County Councillor Martin Farren has described the news as ‘very, very sad’, labelling the closure as ‘the end of an era for the town’.

“It’s very, very sad news that this should actually be happening now. There had been rumours in the past that the bakery was going to close down – and it’s unfortunate that it should be true on this occasion.”

“Obviously, it’s going to be a big blow for the area, first and foremost for the staff, who have given very loyal service to the Doherty family over many years.”

“It’s just so, so sad that staff are getting this news in the jaws of Christmas. But there’s never a good time for news like this.”

Cllr Farren has also commended the Doherty family for their service to the area, and he hopes that a new buyer can be found to rescue any jobs at risk.

“Daniel Doherty’s Bakery has been there for almost 150 years, and I want to pay tribute to the Doherty family as well. They have provided great local employment for such a long time.”

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“Hopefully, now, some other bakery company may step in and take the premises over to possibly save the jobs that are there. There are a lot of very experienced and skilled staff employed up there who would be an asset to any other company.” 

“I’ve known numerous people who have worked at Daniel Doherty’s over the years – and it’s very much the end of an era for Moville and the wider Inishowen region.”

Daniel Doherty’s products have been staples on Inishowen and Derry shop shelves for many generations – including the traditionally-baked white sliced loaf, the Sunrise batch loaf, and the popular Knutty Crust brown loaf.

“Their bread has always been top quality too, and it’s sad to think that it may not be available any more,” Cllr Farren added.