Cara

Ireland’s number-one match brand, Cara has been made in Dublin by Maguire & Paterson since 1882,  at its peak the factory produced roughly 6 billion matches a year, and in 1993 launched the world’s first sulphur-free safety match. Owned today by the SHS Group, Cara sits alongside heritage names like Bo Peep and Extra Long in the wider Maguire & Paterson portfolio. Irish shoppers reach for Cara the way UK shoppers reach for Swan Vestas,  genuinely a household staple. Newvend stocks Cara safety matches wholesale for Irish retailers alongside the full Papers & Accessories range.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How long has Cara been made in Ireland?

Cara safety matches have been produced in Dublin by Maguire & Paterson since 1882, making Cara one of Ireland’s longest-established consumer brands. At its peak the factory produced roughly 6 billion matches per year.

Are Cara matches sulphur-free?

Yes. Maguire & Paterson launched the world’s first sulphur-free safety match in 1993, and Cara remains one of the leading sulphur-free match brands sold on the Irish market.

Who owns Cara today?

Cara is now part of the SHS Group, which manages Maguire & Paterson’s portfolio including Cara, Bo Peep and Extra Long safety matches. The full range covers standard household matches through to longer BBQ and hob variants.

Which Newvend products pair with Cara matches?

Retailers typically stock Cara matches next to the tobacco gantry alongside Clipper lighters, Rizla papers and Swan filters, rather than in home goods. Newvend supplies Cara wholesale to Irish trade customers as part of the wider Papers & Accessories and Tobacco/Cigars categories.