Co. Carlow butchers win 'Easter Lamb Display Challenge'
The Irish Butchers' Guild has announced the winner of the 2026 Easter Lamb Display Challenge.
The overall winner of this year's competition was Murphy's Craft Butchers in Tullow, Co. Carlow.
The Irish Butchers' Guild said the competition marks "excellence in butchery presentation, creativity and in-store display" across its network of independent butchers.
The guild said that the winning business stood out for its "exceptional attention to detail, outstanding product quality, and a creative, eye-catching showcase".
Commenting on the win, James Murphy from Murphy's Craft Butchers said: "We're absolutely delighted to be named overall champion.
"It's a great reward for the hard work and attention to detail the team puts in every day.
"Competitions like this really showcase the best of Irish butchery, and we're proud to be part of that," Murphy added.
The annual competition recognises Irish Butchers' Guild members who "go above and beyond in showcasing the very best of Irish lamb during the Easter season", the guild said.
In this year's competition, a number of butchers were also recognised with '5-Star Awards' for their entries, including Corrigan’s Artisan Butchers, Dublin; Callaghan’s Butchers, Bettystown; and B. Molloy Master Butchers, Ennis.
Several other business were awarded '4-Star' and '3-Star' awards for their high quality and effort, according to the guild.
"With lamb holding a special place in Irish food traditions at Easter, the competition highlights the vital role local butchers play in presenting high-quality, locally sourced produce in an inspiring and engaging way for customers," the guild said.
According to the Irish Butchers' Guild, judging in the competition was based on three areas: overall display; visual appeal and aesthetics; and creativity and innovation.
The 5-Star Award was presented to displays that "stood out as truly exceptional, combining outstanding presentation, premium-quality meat, and a distinctive or innovative approach".
The guild said that this year's competition "highlighted the incredible skill and creativity within the guild, with entries featuring both traditional favourites and innovative value-added products".
According to the Irish Butchers' Guild, its members "share a deep commitment to upholding their craft" and to the quality of their products.
"The Irish Butchers' Guild continues to champion independent butchers across Ireland, promoting quality, craftmanship, and the importance of supporting local food producers ," the guild said.
