Knockanore Farmhouse Cheese, a family‑run business based in Ballyneety, Knockanore, Co. Waterford, has continued to strengthen and future‑proof its operation thanks to support from Waterford LEADER Partnership.
Run by father and son Eamonn and Edward Lonergan, the business received funding under the first targeted call of the new 2023-2027 LEADER programme, enabling a significant equipment upgrade completed in 2025.
Supporting Growth Through Smart Investment
The project focused on the purchase of two key pieces of equipment designed to improve efficiency, sustainability, and production capacity.
The first investment was a renewable energy HVO steam boiler, replacing an outdated system that was more than 20 years old and operating at approximately 50% efficiency. The new boiler now delivers 80–90% efficiency, significantly reducing energy use and emissions. It operates on rapeseed oil and spent cooking oil, moving the business away from fossil fuels and supporting greener production methods.
The second investment was a high‑tech automatic labelling machine, which has transformed how products are prepared for market. The new system allows Knockanore Farmhouse Cheese to label larger quantities at one time while meeting the growing demand from retailers for real‑time product information and compliance labelling.
Real Benefits for Rural Employment
Together, these upgrades have helped the business increase efficiency, reduce its environmental footprint, and continue to grow sustainably in West Waterford, supporting local employment and strengthening the rural economy.
“For many years now, Waterford LEADER Partnership has been an immense support to Knockanore Farmhouse Cheese. With the help of WLP, we have grown the business in the local area of West Waterford, providing much‑needed local employment. We are very grateful for all their help.”
— Knockanore Farmhouse Cheese
