Finnebrogue founder dies in tragic quad bike accident – NR offers condolences

Finnebrogue founder dies in tragic quad bike accident – NR offers condolences
Mr Denis Lynn, Entrepreneur, visionary, founder of Finnebrogue, husband and father

Finnebrogue founder Denis Lynn has died in a tragic quad bike accident. A statement on the company’s website reads “Our thoughts are with Denis’s wife, children Kerry, Clare, Tara and Ciara and the entire family at this incredibly difficult time.

Late last year NR reported on the major investmentin to the company’s Downpatrick plant, and its significant expansion into the meat-free sector. Denis Lynn was an innovator and a leader in the development of the meat-free products.

Visionary

Described as a visionary with ‘an infectious passion for delivering postive change for the planet and its people, he leaves behind an extraordinary list of achievements.

‘Finnebrogue was his creation. It now falls on all of us – the Finnebrogue family – to continue his outstanding work,’ continued the statement.

‘The Board of Directors has met. Non-executive director David Manning has been appointed interim-chairman with immediate effect. Non-executive director Colin Walsh has been appointed interim deputy-chairman. The senior management team will lead the business on a day-to-day basis.’

The company has set up an email account – RememberingDenis@finnebrogue.com – for anyone who’d wish to send memories and condolences, which the company will compile and publish in due course.

‘Denis was our founder, leader and inspiration. We will best honoour his memory by invoking his passion for making food the best it can possibly be, without being bund by the way it’s always been done – and by trying every day t make the world a better place’ concluded the statement.

Exceptional entrepreneur

Nick Whelan, Chair, Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association (NIFDA) said “We are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden death of Denis Lynn, founder and Chairman of Finnebrogue. Denis was an exceptional entrepreneur, a true innovator, and a man of great vision and energy. A strong and very active supporter of NIFDA, Denis was committed to realising the potential of the food and drink industry in Northern Ireland.

“Denis had a real passion for the planet and was at the forefront in demonstrating how food and drink companies can lead the way in enhancing environmental sustainability. Indeed, his commitment to making the world a better place extended beyond his considerable achievements in business. His charity work, championing of his local community and personal kindness provide inspiration to us all.

Lasting legacy

“Denis will be sorely missed by his colleagues at Finnebrogue and right across the food industry and wider business community in Northern Ireland. His contribution to Northern Ireland was immense, and his legacy will leave a significant and lasting imprint for years to come.

“Our thoughts are with Denis’ wife Christine, his children Kerry, Clare, Tara and Ciara and the wider family circle at this very difficult time.”

NR was deeply saddened to hear of the tragedy. In our October issue we reported on the major investment into the Downpatrick plant – followed by an in-depth interview with the company’s CEO Andrew nethercott in the 2021 Yearbook. We have been sincerely impressed by the company’s commitment to meat-free production and its credentials in terms of producing delicious food, that is kind to the planet. This was Mr Lynn’s legacy.

Finnebrogue really is Northern Ireland’s leader in the plant based revolution – and continues to be a great inspiration across the food production sector. Condolences to the entire workforce family at Finnebrogue, and to Mr Lynn’s wife and children.

Leading the plant based revolution – in the 2021 NR Yearbook we featured a full length interview withthe company’s chief executive Andrew Nethercott