Crawfords first opened its doors in 1900 as a general merchant and has developed into one of Northern Ireland’s leading independent supermarkets. Robert Crawford founded the business in 1900 which still occupies the original, albeit much extended site on Main st in Maghera. In 1956 Roberts nephew (also Robert) and his son Gilbert bought the business outright. Gilbert and his wife Hazel then expanded through the 60’s and 70’s adding a toy department and coffee lounge. The 1980s saw further expansion and the business joined NISA (National Independent Supermarkets Association). Since 2000 the store has more than doubled in size and added a post office, butchery, bakery, ready meal kitchen and off Licence to its strength.

In 2004 their Off Licence was highly commended in the fiercely contested Retail Industry awards in London and won Northern Ireland Neighbourhood Retailer of the Year the same year. 2004 saw our Post Office win Northern Ireland Neighbourhood retailer of the year.

A major extension and refurbishment program commenced in 2009 and completed in 2010. Crawfords have been determined that the new store would enable them to compete on equal terms with the major players in the intensely competitive retail sector. The plaudits of their peers, the reactions of customers and the spectacular results indicate that the decision was right and the huge investment was totally justified.

Crawfords have come a long way since 1900, not geographically but certainly in size and diversity. But there are constants – the personal, daily involvement of the owners, honest dealings with customers, staff and suppliers and the most competitive prices without compromising quality and service. Old fashioned values in a state of the art superstore.

 The Crawfords Group continues to grow with Jonathan Crawford as managing director. We recently acquired a service station, branded as Crawfords Express.

We promise to provide our customers with the highest quality of products. However, we understand that price is a vital factor, and so we strive to find a balance between the two.

Being a family run store and having remained at the heart of our community for decades has instilled core values in Crawford’s vision and we are firm believers and supporters of the local business.

In return for your loyal custom, we promise to do all that we can to provide you with the highest quality of service from the moment you come through our door.