There’s a Pub in Ireland with Your Name on It – Literally

Cool Sh*t, Drink / 28 March 2025
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There’s a Pub in Ireland with Your Name on It – Literally

Cool Sh*t, Drink / 28 March 2025

Ever dreamed of packing up your life and running a cosy Irish pub on a wild and rugged island?

In what might be the most uniquely Irish recruitment drive of all time, Heineken is launching a worldwide search to find the next owner of McLoughlin’s Bar, a historic family-run pub perched on Achill Island in Ireland’s west.

For 155 years, McLoughlin’s Bar has been more than just a place to grab a pint—it’s been a meeting point, a storytelling hub, and a cornerstone of the community. But current owner Joseph ‘Josie’ McLoughlin has no one to pass it on to. After 43 years behind the bar, Josie is ready to retire, and without a McLoughlin to take over, his family name might disappear from above the door forever.

Heineken isn’t having it. Instead, they’re tapping into their global reach (and some truly massive billboards) to track down a McLoughlin anywhere in the world—from Sydney to New York, Buenos Aires to Auckland—who’s ready to return to their Irish roots and keep the taps flowing.

What’s on Offer?

This isn’t just a romantic notion; Heineken is setting the new owner up for success. The chosen McLoughlin will receive mentorship, business support, and financial guidance to help keep the pub thriving. After all, running an Irish pub isn’t just about pouring pints—it’s about preserving history, culture, and community.

McLoughlin’s story is part of a larger problem facing Ireland’s historic pubs. A recent study found that over 40% of rural publicans are considering retirement, but 84% have no family to take over. Without new blood, many beloved local institutions could fade into history.

Are You the Next McLoughlin Behind the Bar?

If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping the rat race and owning a piece of Irish history, this could be your golden (or rather, Guinness-black) opportunity. You don’t need pub experience—just a love of good company, good craic, and good pints.

So, are you a McLoughlin? Or do you know someone who is? The search is on. Find out more and enter here.