Martina Calvey
Innovator
Achill Mountain Lamb
Ireland
Economic
Farming
Remote rural areas
The innovation journey
Born on Achill Island, Martina Calvey has stayed close to her roots and has always been involved in the family farm and business ‘Achill Mountain Lamb’. The farm has existed for generations and produces lamb on commons land from the Mayo Blackface Mountain Sheep breed. The business was originally established in 1962 by Martina’s father, Martin. He spotted a market opportunity to provide lamb to visitors to Achill looking for a local, quality, authentic product. Today, the business operates a farm shop as well as farm tours and supplies lamb to the Irish and UK market.
Martina returned to devote her career to Achill Mountain Lamb after moving away from her work in the teaching profession. She comes from an enterprising family and has gained inspiration and empowerment from role models in her family. Martina’s role in the business focuses on marketing. With growing competition in the market, it was important to build the strength of the brand.
The innovation impact
Born on Achill Island, Martina Calvey has stayed close to her roots and has always been involved in the family farm and business ‘Achill Mountain Lamb’. The farm has existed for generations and produces lamb on commons land from the Mayo Blackface Mountain Sheep breed. The business was originally established in 1962 by Martina’s father, Martin. He spotted a market opportunity to provide lamb to visitors to Achill looking for a local, quality, authentic product. Today, the business operates a farm shop as well as farm tours and supplies lamb to the Irish and UK market.
Martina returned to devote her career to Achill Mountain Lamb after moving away from her work in the teaching profession. She comes from an enterprising family and has gained inspiration and empowerment from role models in her family. Martina’s role in the business focuses on marketing. With growing competition in the market, it was important to build the strength of the brand.