In the lush countryside of South Kilkenny, Ireland, Gail Daniels is redefining what it means to be a modern rural entrepreneur. As a dairy farmer with deep roots in her community, Gail has taken a bold step by creating Bó Bar Soap, a company that produces natural, handmade soap using cow’s milk directly sourced from her family farm.
The inspiration behind Bó Bar Soap is deeply personal. Gail’s daughter struggled with eczema, a condition that prompted her to seek gentle, chemical-free alternatives for skincare. While researching, Gail discovered the benefits of goat’s milk soap but realised she could not find a similar product made from cow’s milk, a staple on her farm. Driven by this gap in the market, she experimented with using milk from her grass-fed cows, which are known for their rich and nourishing properties similar to those of goat’s milk. “After trying the soap on my family, I noticed it didn’t cure eczema, but it significantly reduced redness, itching, and irritation,” Gail explains. Encouraged by positive feedback from friends and family, she transformed her homemade remedy into a viable business.
Bó Bar Soap stands out in Ireland as a pioneering product, combining traditional farming with innovative craftsmanship. Gail’s approach highlights a growing trend among rural entrepreneurs, finding new ways to add value to their agricultural products while preserving the authenticity of their local heritage.
However, Gail admits that the biggest challenge in her journey has been overcoming self-doubt. “The main barrier was myself — having the confidence to start something new,” she shares. Despite limited direct obstacles from outside, stepping into entrepreneurship required determination and a willingness to learn. The COVID-19 lockdown period unexpectedly allowed Gail to deepen her knowledge through online research. Yet, as she neared the launch of Bó Bar Soap, she realised the need for more specialised support. Turning to the Local Enterprise Office in her county proved crucial, offering guidance and resources to help her navigate the business landscape.
As Bó Bar Soap continues to grow, Gail hopes her journey encourages more women in rural areas to explore entrepreneurship. “With the right support and belief in yourself, anything is possible,” she says.