Cork has been Ireland’s food capital for centuries, and the county’s food industry is a major contributor to Ireland’s €16 billion annual food and drink exports. Food companies exporting to international markets frequently need quality certificates, health documents, and trade agreements notarised. Hugh Phelan’s office in Douglas provides efficient notarial services for the food industry.
Cork’s Food Industry
Cork’s food heritage runs deep. The English Market, dating from 1788, is one of the oldest municipal markets in the world and remains a vibrant centre of Cork’s food culture. Beyond the market, Cork is home to major food processing companies, artisan producers, and some of Ireland’s largest food exporters.
Key food sectors in Cork include:
- Meat processing: Cork hosts several major meat processing facilities, exporting beef, lamb, and pork to markets worldwide
- Seafood: Cork’s long coastline supports a significant fishing and aquaculture industry, with exports to Europe, Asia, and beyond
- Beverages: From craft breweries to distilleries, Cork’s drinks sector is growing rapidly
- Artisan food: Cork is renowned for its artisan cheese, chocolate, and speciality food producers
- Prepared foods: Several major prepared food companies are headquartered in Cork
Food Industry Documents We Notarise
- Quality certificates — Bord Bia Quality Assurance certificates, ISO certifications, BRC certificates, and other quality marks for international use
- Health certificates — notarised copies of veterinary health certificates and phytosanitary certificates for export markets
- Certificates of origin — notarised certificates confirming the Irish origin of food products for preferential trade agreements
- International supply agreements — contracts between Cork food producers and international distributors, retailers, or food service companies
- Export licences and permits — notarised copies of DAFM export licences and permits for foreign regulatory authorities
- Company documents — certificates of incorporation, tax clearance certificates, and financial statements required by international buyers
- Labelling and compliance declarations — statutory declarations confirming compliance with international food labelling and safety standards
Why Cork Food Companies Choose Our Service
- Understanding of export documentation: Over 20 years’ experience with international trade documents
- Urgent service: Export deadlines are often tight. Same-day appointments are frequently available
- Dual qualification: Solicitor in both Ireland and England & Wales, valuable for UK market documentation
- Convenient location: Douglas is accessible from food processing facilities across Cork, with free parking
- Advance preparation: Email documents ahead of your visit for maximum efficiency
How to Book an Appointment
- Phone: (021) 489 7134 (office hours)
- Urgent/Mobile: 086 390 7815
- Email: info@phelansolicitors.com
When booking, let us know the type of document, the country where it will be used, and any deadlines you are working to.
Frequently Asked Questions
What food industry documents need notarisation?
Quality certificates, health certificates, certificates of origin, export licences, and international supply agreements frequently require notarisation for overseas markets.
Can you notarise Bord Bia quality assurance certificates?
Yes. We can notarise certified copies of Bord Bia Quality Assurance certificates and other Irish food quality marks for international use.
Do I need an appointment?
Yes. Call (021) 489 7134 to book. Same-day appointments are frequently available for urgent export deadlines.
How quickly can documents be notarised?
Most documents can be notarised during a single appointment. For urgent export deadlines, call us to arrange priority service.
Hugh Phelan
Solicitor & Notary Public
Hugh Phelan is a Solicitor and Notary Public practising from Douglas, Co. Cork. Appointed by the Chief Justice of Ireland, he holds a BCL from UCC and a Diploma in Notarial Law and Practice. He is dual-qualified in Ireland and England & Wales, with over 20 years of professional experience.