McKeever Hotels marks 40 years with anniversary programme and new growth strategy

Eugene and Catherine McKeever, who founded the McKeever Hotel Group 40 years ago and have overseen its growth from Corr’s Corner in Newtownabbey in 1986 to a dynamic family business with seven hotels employing a 600-strong team.

McKeever Hotels is celebrating 40 years in business with a 12-month anniversary programme, marking four decades of growth from a single Newtownabbey restaurant to a seven-hotel hospitality group employing 600 people across the island of Ireland.

The family-run Northern Ireland hospitality group has launched a year-long initiative reflecting on its achievements since 1986, while setting out a strategic plan focused on continued investment, expansion, performance and sustainability over the next five years.

Founded by husband and wife Eugene and Catherine McKeever, the business began with the purchase of Corr’s Corner in Newtownabbey. Today, the multi-award-winning group operates seven hotels across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, with the second generation – Eddie and Bridgene McKeever – now leading the company.

From Corr’s Corner to a seven-hotel group

The McKeever journey began in 1986 with the acquisition of Corr’s Corner, a well-known restaurant and bar in Newtownabbey. Over four decades, the business has grown into a significant employer within the hospitality sector, with 600 staff working across its portfolio.

The group comprises:

• Dunadry Hotel and Gardens

• Dunsilly Hotel

• Dillons Hotel

• Corr’s Corner Hotel

• Adair Arms Hotel

• Lodge Hotel

• Armagh City Hotel

Eugene and Catherine McKeever

Eugene McKeever said the milestone provides an opportunity to recognise the people behind the business’s success.

“We’re always focused on the future and how we build and develop our business model,” said Eugene, “but we can’t do so without reflecting on our past. This milestone simply wouldn’t have been achieved without the dedication and commitment of our best-in-class team, as well as the trust and support of our guests, partners and the communities where we are based.”

Anniversary programme and community involvement

To launch its 40th anniversary celebrations, McKeever Hotels has produced a video telling the story of its journey and its passion for hospitality. Watch below:

As part of the commemorations, the group is inviting customers and guests to share photographs, videos and stories that reflect their connections with the hotels.

Submissions will form part of a “McKeever Memory Lane” archive, documenting four decades of hospitality and community life.

Catherine McKeever, Chair of Community and Social Engagement, highlighted the significance of those relationships.

“Our hotels are all about people, community and connections,” said Catherine.

“We support people on some of the most important days of their lives, from weddings and christenings to anniversaries and funerals.  We’ve always strived to make these experiences as warm, secure and memorable as possible and our 40th creates the opportunity to recognise this and ensure our local communities continue to be actively involved in our celebrations.”

Customers wishing to contribute to McKeever Memory Lane are asked to email photographs and videos to marketing@mckeeverhotelgroup.com.

Exclusive prizes will be awarded for entries that best capture 40 years of hospitality.

Recognition at Westminster

The anniversary has also been formally acknowledged at Westminster. Robin Swann MP submitted an Early Day Motion to the House of Commons marking the group’s four decades in business.

He said:

“Reaching four decades of excellence within the Northern Ireland hospitality sector is an excellent achievement and a testament to your vision, hard work and entrepreneurship. I wish you all continued success and growth for the future.”

Looking ahead to 2026

A programme of events is planned throughout 2026, including a gala dinner, volunteer opportunities for staff, special promotions and themed days across the group’s hotels.

While reflective in tone, Eugene McKeever said the 40th anniversary is also intended to reinforce future ambitions.

“Our ‘We Do More’ ethos continues to shape our business and our strategic thinking. 2026 is the perfect opportunity to take a breath and recognise all who have helped us reach our goals so far.  But it is also an important pivot, bolstering our ambitions and shaping our forward direction. We’re very excited by what the future holds.”

With continued investment and sustainability central to its five-year strategy, McKeever Hotels says the milestone marks not just four decades of hospitality, but the beginning of its next phase of development across the island of Ireland.