“A familiar face, a calming Buddha, and a whole lot of coffee.”
This week on The Shopfront Series, we catch up with Neil Sokay, second-generation pharmacist and friendly face behind Lynchs Pharmacy, a staple of the Kells community since 1991 — and now open seven days. From pandemic pivots to early morning runs, Niall shares the story behind one of Kells’ most quietly essential businesses.
“It started with my Dad…”
The story of Lynch’s Pharmacy begins with a family move and a leap of faith.
“We moved to Kells in 1991,” says Neil, “when my father, Jai, a first-generation pharmacist, took over Lynch’s Pharmacy. I took over in 2004 and have been here ever since.
It was less a light-bulb moment and more a steady glow — a path lit by example. “My dad started me off on this journey and taught me a lot.”
Behind the Counter
You might be surprised to learn that your local pharmacist is also a qualified snowboard instructor. But these days, Neil’s adrenaline fix comes from running, which he swears by as the best stress buster around. His day begins early:
“Massive coffee at 6am. Then again at 10.”
By 8:30 am, the pharmacy is prepping for the day ahead, with the doors opening at 9. From then, it’s constant footfall until closing — every day of the week.
Still, it’s not the hustle that keeps Neil going. It’s the impact.
“Helping patients understand their medications… empowering them to make lifestyle changes… that’s the part I love most.”
The Heart of the Business
The pharmacy isn’t just a place to pick up a prescription. It’s a hub of care, service, and support.
“We’re open 7 days a week and offer a wide range of services — vaccines, health screening, medicine administration, blister packing, and more.”
Their ethos is simple: supporting patients on their health journey and making sure they feel fully informed.
“We want people to know we’re always available, and that they can have as much time as they need with any of our highly trained staff.”
At the heart of it all is an unusual co-worker: a smiling Buddha, who sits calmly in the workspace, a quiet symbol of calm and positivity — and a bit of fun.
Challenge, Resilience… and Coffee
Ask any local business what their biggest challenge has been, and you’ll hear one word: pandemic.
“It was like a tidal wave. But we stayed open, 7 days a week, throughout.”
That kind of resilience is hard-earned. And it’s paid off.
Success for Neil? “Being able to open your door, 7 days a week, every year.”
The Kells Connection
What’s it like to run a business in a small town where everybody knows your name?
“It’s lovely when you know everyone’s name — and even nicer when they know yours.”
That local bond is central to how Lynch’s Pharmacy operates — not just as a business, but as a pillar of support for the people of Kells.
Looking Forward
When asked about the future, Neil doesn’t spin a grand vision. He’s keeping it grounded and steady, much like the business itself.
“We’d love to continue growing, stay rooted in the community, and keep adapting to meet people’s needs.”
And if the pharmacy had a mascot?
“Definitely an elephant. Solid, dependable, and remembers everything.”
Quickfire Round: Just for Fun
- Coffee or Tea? Coffee. Large. Twice daily.
- Best time of day for ideas? 8am, after a run or gym session.
- Workplace soundtrack? Probably the hum of a busy day… and maybe the laughter the Buddha brings.
- Quirkiest item in the shop? Smiling Buddha. Calming vibes guaranteed.
Whether you’re popping in for a prescription or just saying hello, Lynch’s Pharmacy is more than a chemist — it’s a part of the rhythm of Kells life.
As for Neil? He’ll be up at dawn, running, coffee in hand, and ready for another day of helping others — one smile, one script, one chat at a time.
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