Carlow Business Awards 2023 by County Carlow Chamber of Commerce

SPONSORED BY

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

At LoveCarlow, we are proud to be CHAMBER Celebrating 7 years of... MEMBERS for CHARITY all that is positive Lunch Join us for any or all of our Shining a light onFree about our wonderful county Free Seminar 10 free lunchtime seminars taking place in October and November. Donate at the Door

100% of Funds raised will be donated to our nominated Charity

7 e r a e W

Working to help improve our town centres Promoting & supporting local shops & businesses

Visit www.carlowchamber.com for the full schedule and details of all seminars Scan by here to visit our • Seminars start at 1pm and will be concluded 2pm

A project by

• Seminars are open for all to attend

website & find out more

• Recommended minimum donation of €10 pp 2

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

PROGRAMME 7:00PM

EVENING RECEPTION & NETWORKING

8:00PM

AWARDS CEREMONY COMMENCES

10:00PM

TIME TO CELEBRATE

2023 AWARD CATEGORIES 8.

HEALTH & WELLBEING AWARD

BUSINESS SUPPORTING COMMUNITY AWARD

10. FOOD AND BEVERAGE PRODUCERS AWARD 11.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AWARD

13. RESEARCH INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY AWARD 14. SUSTAINABLE INITIATIVES AWARD 15. BEST ONLINE PRESENCE AWARD 16. EMERGING BUSINESS AWARD 17.

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS AWARD

19. CULTURE HERITAGE & TOURISM AWARD 20. OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO BUSINESS AWARD 21. DAYTIME DINING AWARD 22. NIGHTTIME DINING AWARD

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

23. BEST PRESENTED PREMISES/SHOP FRONT - MUINE BHEAG & CARLOW SOUTH

2023

25. BEST PRESENTED PREMISES/SHOP FRONT - TULLOW & CARLOW NORTH 26. BEST PRESENTED PREMISES/SHOP FRONT - CARLOW TOWN 27. CARLOW AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR 28. PERSONAL SERVICES AWARD 29. PRESIDENTS AWARD 31. RETAILER OF THE YEAR AWARD 32. FAMILY BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD 33. CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD 34. CARLOW’S LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD 35. OUTSTANDING SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR 37. OUTSTANDING MEDIUM BUSINESS OF THE YEAR 38. CARLOW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

our finalists right across the categories and all here tonight.

EY ROWENA DOOL UNTY CARLOW OF CO 2023 PRESIDENT MMERCE CHAMBER OF CO

PRESIDENT’S WELCOME On behalf of County Carlow Chamber, I would like to extend a very warm welcome to the Carlow Business Awards 2023. Our Chamber is delighted to once again partner with Bank of Ireland for the Carlow Business Awards. These awards are designed to recognise the outstanding contribution of Carlow’s small, medium and large businesses working diligently across all sectors, enhancing our county. Every year, at these awards, we are inspired by the very best of business talent that Carlow has on offer. Having become a judge for the first time this year, I was truly amazed at the enthusiasm, resilience, determination and the positive approach witnessed from 4 4

The dedicated judging panel of 17 business owners, managers and professionals, listened to over 130 presentations from our finalists during the 2 days at the Woodford Dolmen Hotel earlier this month. This amounted to over 290 hours of debating and reviewing of data and of mystery audits. It was a very difficult but inspiring task to select winners in the various categories, in particular the three ‘business of the year’ categories. I would like to sincerely thank the judging panel for the time, commitment and impartiality they showed to seek out our award winners. On behalf of the Chamber, I would like to shine the light on our valued award sponsors, many of whom have supported these awards for over 10 years. The awards would not have been possible without the involvement of the public – thank you for submitting 100’s of nominations. Thanks to an enhanced social media campaign we ran this year the number of nominations was up by over 30% on previous years. The FINALISTS were spread right across the county and we were delighted to see so many new business entrants to our awards. I would also like to extend a sincere appreciation to our Chamber Board and all their hard work throughout the year, on a voluntary basis.

A very special thank you also to our dedicated Awards Committee, chaired by Yvonne Jones. They have worked over the past year taking feedback and working on improvements and tweaks to make this our Chamber showcase event our best ever. Their dedication and enthusiasm has brought the changes and improvements to fruition and allow us celebrate our Carlow businesses tonight. A big thank you also goes out to Chamber CEO Brian 0’ Farrell and Lisa Mc Cann in the Chamber office, who both work tirelessly promoting and organising all our Chamber events throughout the year. Finally, on behalf of everyone in the Chamber, I would like to congratulate the finalists that have made it through our nomination and judging processes to be here with us tonight. All your hard work and commitment is recognised and your business is celebrated at these awards. We are here to shine a light on your excellence, innovation and incredible resilience that defines your success. May your success continue to shine as a beacon of hope and motivation to us all. I wish you the very best of luck tonight and in the future with your business. Enjoy the evening.

Rowena Dooley 2023 President of County Carlow Chamber of Commerce CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

A WORD FROM OUR EVENT SPONSORS On behalf of the Bank of Ireland it is my great pleasure to welcome you all to the County Carlow Chamber Business Awards 2023.

MADELINE RY AN

BANK OF IRELAN D MANAGER CARLOW & BAG ENALSTOWN

This gathering is a highlight of our annual business calender. Carlow is a great place to do business and tonight’s event is an opportunity to recognise, celebrate and be inspired by your achievements. Over the past years Carlow businesses have adapted and thrived. That has been possible because of your entrepreneurial spirit, the hard work of your employees and the loyalty of your customers.

I congratulate all the businesses and individuals who have been so deservedly nominated for their innovation, resilience and success. Let me wish you the best of luck tonight and continued success for years to come. Sincerely,

Madeline Ryan

Madeline Ryan Bank Manager Carlow & Bagenalstown

5 CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: MC

JUDGING PANEL: Rowena Dooley (Chamber President & Dooley Motors)

Eimear Ni Bhraonain

Fiona Muldowney (Bank of Ireland)

MAIN SPONSORS

Michael Quinn (Chamber Vice President & Robert Quinn Ltd.)

Bank of Ireland

ARRIVAL RECEPTION

Carlow Brewing Company, Walsh Whiskey, Sunshine Juice CATERING

Lennons @ Visual VENUE

Colin Duggan (Chamber Vice President & Woodford Dolmen Hotel) Pat Amond (Carlow Toolmaking Services) Eileen Mc Cabe (Content Plan) Muirighin Brophy (SETU) Gabrielle Carroll (KCETB) Caroline Kelly (Burnside Autocyl Tullow)

VISUAL Centre for Contemporary Art & The George Bernard Shaw Theatre

Fiona Lonergan (IDA South East)

AUDIO VISUAL

Christine Power (KCLR)

Hedghog Productions, Premier Sound and Lighting PHOTOGRAPHY

Thomas Sunderland AWARDS

Ballyshane DESIGN & PRINT

Jones Business Systems MUSIC

Rachel McCormack MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS

The Nationalist, KCLR 96 FM, Flaglane Marketing

Brian Ogilvie (SETU) Anne Marie Russell Walsh (Enterprise Ireland) Ashling Ward (Carlow Kilkenny Skillsnet) David Walsh (HaloCare) Carmel Nolan (KCLR) Yolanda Murphy (Ernst & Young)

ORGANISING COMMITTEE: Yvonne Jones (Awards Committee Chair) Rowena Dooley Michael Quinn Colin Duggan Madeline Ryan Caroline Kelly Norah Ryan Kirsty Kavanagh

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2023

Rowena Dooley

Michael Quinn

Dooley Motors

Robert Quinn Ltd

Kirsty Kavanagh Kavanagh & Co Solicitors

Shane Kenneally FDC Financial Services

Norah Ryan Barrow Training

Eoin Kehoe Kehoe Auctioneers

Daniel McCarthy Talbot Hotel Carlow

Paul Byrne Business I.T. Solutions

Colin Duggan Woodford Dolmen Hotel

Gary Evans Yourweb.ie

Madeline Ryan Bank of Ireland

Gemma Purrcell SETU

Yvonne Jones Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Assoc

Noel Doyle Equinox Education

Mick Kelly 7 Simply Workflow

SPONSOR:

BERLIN HAIR Berlin hair lounge is a 5 star hair salon situated in the heart of Carlow town with a friendly team of 22. Led by Maria, the team pride themselves on top class customer service and having the most highly trained professionals in the industry. Berlin Hair promote a positive mental attitude in the salon and strive to deliver an outstanding customer experience.

HEALTH & WELLBEING AWARD This award is designed to recognise businesses who, over the last 2 years, have committed to putting in place policies and practices to improve the health and well being of their employees. Finalists have demonstrated team involvement in creating and implementing practices and improvements for the betterment of their staff and culture in the organisation.

FINALISTS • Barrow Consultancy and Training Ltd • Saplings Carlow • Suantraí Montessori Tinryland • Unum Ireland Ltd

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

BUSINESS SUPPORTING COMMUNITY AWARD This award is designed to recognise businesses that have demonstrated a commitment to innovative ways of supporting the community in which they operate. The finalists have shown management, team, individual and company wide involvement in their contribution to community.

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

FINALISTS • Michael O’Shea & Son Ltd, Borris • MSD Ireland, Carlow • NUA Carlow, A Glenveagh Company

SPONSOR:

KCLR

KCLR is the local radio station for Carlow & Kilkenny. With a weekly radio listenership of over 69,000 and a social reach of over 80,000 followers. We provide a unique mix of local news, information, conversation, and discussion of local, national, and international issues as well as a great blend of music and entertainment making us by far and away the most popular station in this area.

SPONSOR:

TALBOT HOTEL CARLOW The Talbot Hotel Carlow is home to the vibrant Corries Bar & Bistro which is loved by locals and hotel guests alike. The hotel offers extensive conference & banqueting facilities and is a local favourite venue for weddings, civil ceremonies, and other special family occasions. The Talbot Hotel Carlow also boasts some of the finest leisure facilities including Talbot Fitness which features a 20m swimming pool, an extensive gym with high specification fitness equipment, an on-site hair & beauty salon and the DOME Family Entertainment Centre which includes a Bowling Alley, Games Arcade, and huge CONGO QUEST play-zone.

Talbot Carlow

FOOD AND BEVERAGE PRODUCERS AWARD This award recognises the importance of the Irish food business in our county and recognises the top performing businesses within this dynamic and innovative sector. Finalists have demonstrated excellence and innovation in their production and management processes along with displaying superior quality and excellence.

FINALISTS • Carlow Brewing Company • Chocolate Garden of Ireland • Coppenagh House Farm • Seerys Heatherfield Ltd • Walsh Juice

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AWARD This award recognises excellence in customer service delivery in the area of professional services and consultancy offerings. Finalists have shown a commitment to best in class delivery of expertise and professional services. The nominations have come from a wide range of professions such as architects, solicitors, construction advisors, auctioneers health care providers, banks, financial advisers, accountants, recruitment, travel agents and insurance companies.

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

FINALISTS • JPD Management & Consultancy Services • Care Network Ireland • Harney Nolan Chartered Accountants • Matrix Recruitment • Milford Financial Services • PDS & Associates • Remax Property Carlow

SPONSOR:

DOOLEY MOTORS Dooley Motors is a steadily growing family business operating as a multi franchise motor dealership and commercial vehicle test centre. Established over 34 years ago, the company proudly hosts the franchise in Carlow for Ford, Kia, Fiat, Jeep and soon to be announced additional brand. Located at the Sleaty Road Roundabout, Carlow, Dooley Motors offers a one stop shop for all the commercial and car motorists’ needs. Dooley Motors will assist and advise on a company’s or an individual’s potential move towards electrification of their vehicle or entire fleet. Dooley Motors, Customer Driven.

• The Social Media Department

Carlow's leading newspaper for all your local news, events and sports.

Hedgehog Productions, One of Ireland's leading video production companies Hedgehog Productions specialise in making high quality videos that are ideally suited for online marketing. They can provide everything you need to produce your videos including developing a script, providing actors or voice over artists and arranging your backing music.

Keeping you informed and involved in all that's going on in your local community.

The Nationalist, Hanover House, Hanover, Carlow T: +353 59 9170100 E: news@carlow-nationalist.ie

Services include: Promotional Videos for your business or organisation Filming Events Aerial Filming / Drone Filming Live video event streaming Audio Visual Hire Photography Services

E: Greg Mynhardt greg@hedgehog.ie P: 085 151 5748 12 (059) 918 6614

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

RESEARCH INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY AWARD Finalists of this category have shown evidence of how through research and development, they have developed or utilised innovative technologies (hardware or software) and processes. These progressive developments represent a key competitive advantage for the company within the industry they operate.

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

FINALISTS • Aptus • Bodylite Gear • Carlow Build • Feedalpha

SPONSOR:

SOUTH EAST TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY South East Technological University is the first technological university in south east Ireland. This gives us an exciting platform to establish our community as a centre for innovation, opportunity, and growth. Through exceptional learning and collaboration, we aim to transform the ambitions of learners, researchers, and businesses across the south east and beyond.

SPONSOR:

CARLOW COUNTY COUNCIL LOCAL ENTERPRISE OFFICE The Local Enterprise Office in Carlow County Council provide a “First Stop Shop” service where individuals can receive advice on the steps involved in setting up a business, to the provision of grants for feasibility studies, provision of financial support for the establishment of new businesses or expansion of existing ones and the provision of a range of soft supports such as training and mentoring. The range of supports is designed to assist businesses to grow stronger and bigger by being able to provide targeted, and appropriate, assistance at each stage of their development.

SUSTAINABLE INITIATIVES AWARD This award is designed to recognise products, processes, initiatives and policies that the company has introduced that support a greener more sustainable environment. Finalists have clearly demonstrated actions, have proven results to date and have robust future plans for sustainability, while supporting the circular economy.

FINALISTS • Ballyshane • Cullen Nurseries Ltd • Infinite Energy • Sun Arc Solar System’s • VisionGreen Consultancy Ltd

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

BEST ONLINE PRESENCE AWARD Finalists for this category have embraced the move to online across a wide range of industries and sectors. Judges have looked for a bespoke online presence that delivers in a range of ways. Website purpose, simplicity, useability and functional optimisation have all been examined and how they impact on the business and connection with brand and communication channels.

FINALISTS • Carlow Tourism • Barrow Consultancy and Training Ltd • Carroll Estimating Ltd • Cullen Nurseries Ltd • Feedalpha • Lawlor’s Furniture & Flooring • Matrix Recruitment • Powerhouse Revolution Ltd

SPONSOR:

• The Chalet • The Gym Carlow • TradeLocal.ie

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

SPONSOR:

BLACKNIGHT SOLUTIONS Blacknight is an Irish-based leader in the services that businesses need to build an online presence and to sell to customers worldwide. With everything from website creation, hosting, data centres, co-location, dedicated server space, domain names, and more, every type of client from small to large is covered. Now, they’re connecting businesses and homes across Ireland with broadband. Complete with trusted award-winning customer service and a rating of Excellent on TrustPilot, Blacknight’s easy-to-use solutions are just a click or call away.

EMERGING BUSINESS AWARD This award was open to companies that were established in the last 3 years. The judges analysed how these companies showed a strategic approach to their business development. The finalists have demonstrated their plans for implementation of strategy and have shown a pathway to future growth and harnessing of opportunities.

FINALISTS • Arc Construction Solutions Ireland • Barrow Brew • Care Network Ireland • Ciaran Smith Heating and Plumbing • Colmac Commercial Equipment Ltd • Bevelle Hair Salon • Curl Hut • Enchanted Castle Melts • FTI wellbeing and Training Ltd • HaloCare Carlow • Infinite Energy • Powerhouse Revolution Ltd • Sit Happens Dog Training Carlow • Stratticus • White Meadow

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS AWARD This award was open to businesses operating in International Markets, in the exporting or importing of products / services. The finalists have demonstrated progress and success in growing their trade in new markets. The finalist have proven to be ambassadors for Carlow in business abroad.

FINALISTS • Arc Construction Solutions Ireland • Carlow Brewing Company • Equinox Education Services • EquiRatings Limited • James Dominic Music • Pro-Tray • Stryve

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

SPONSOR:

HARNEY NOLAN CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS On the face of it Harney Nolan is a firm of Professional Chartered Accountants, but we have developed into a boutique business consultancy firm. In business for over 35 years, we have solutions and ideas for all the stages in the lifecycle of business. We provide a vast range of services including producing your traditional year-end financial statements, but we also have a wealth of experience in assisting start-up companies raise finance and helping clients pass their businesses on to the next generation to a third party by way of sale. We are simple enough in structure to know your name when you call but have the ability to handle complexity. We are 1 of only 16 firms in the entire country permitted to provide Accountancy, Audit & Advisory services to Government/State Bodies. Our office is located on the Dublin Road, just opposite MSD.

Email: info@carlowbrewing.com Carlow Brewing Company Ltd, Royal Oak Road, Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow, Ireland.

O’Hara’s Brewery/Carlow Brewing Company is an independent Irish familyowned brewery located in the heart of Ireland's historical malt-growing “Barrow Valley” region. 18

Carlow Chamber A5.indd 1

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

26/09/2023 14:52:17

2023

CULTURE HERITAGE & TOURISM AWARD This category is open to all heritage and cultural attractions, activities, festivals and events which can demonstrate excellence in their business practices, business performance and success. In addition to demonstrating customer satisfaction, applicants will also be able to demonstrate how they work to develop a greater understanding of the needs of tourists and visitors and how this knowledge influences the delivery of their visitor experience. Where relevant, they should be able to demonstrate ways in which they are ‘adding’ additional revenue streams/potential to grow the business to ensure greater sustainability into the future

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

FINALISTS • Carlow County Museum • Carlow Pride Fest • Delta Sensory Gardens • Pan Celtic International Festival • St Patricks Day Festival • Tullow Agricultural Show • VISUAL and The GB Shaw Theatre

SPONSOR:

TILE N STYLE TilenStyle Making A House A Home. TilenStyle is an Irish family run business established in September 2002 by Bernard Horohan. From humble beginnings in a small former Carlow supermarket unit, over the past 20 years TilenStyle has grown into a reputable modern-day retailer that pride ourselves on expanding our choice of product range from new and vibrant bathrooms & tiles to paint, wallpaper, timber flooring, lighting, coving and modern furniture trends. Importing products from all over the world TilenStyle caters for the residential and commercial customer and is proud to operate from the largest Tile & Bathroom Showroom in the South East. TilenStyle has a vast selection of displays including more than 35 real-life settings, helping you to visualise your perfect home. The showroom is always adapting and changing to keep in line with ever changing styles. Our Motto: Convey a passion for our customers and go above and beyond in order to consistently deliver the best customer experience for them

SPONSOR:

THE NATIONALIST THE NATIONALIST Established in 1883, we’re Carlow’s No.1 source for all your local news, events, and sports. With unrivalled coverage of everything that’s going on in the local community, we are read by over 60% of all adults in County Carlow, which makes The Nationalist the perfect partner for building your brand and advertising your business. Our experienced sales and creative teams can help you develop a campaign that meets your requirements and delivers the results you need. Part of the Irish Times group of media, we can advise you on a wide range of print and digital options, from display and recruitment to classified advertising.

OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO BUSINESS AWARD As Google’s Chief Marketing Officer, Lorraine manages a global team responsible for telling the evolving story of Google’s brand, driving growth, and helping billions of users discover and make the most of Google’s products every day. Lorraine graduated from Dublin City University with a joint honours degree in International Marketing and Languages. She has been named Adweek’s Grand Brand Genius, Business Insider’s Most Innovative CMO, one of the world’s 50 Most Powerful Moms, Cannes Creative Marketer of the Year, and has spoken at the United Nations on empowering women through digital tools. A native of Carlow and past pupil of St. Leo’s, Lorraine now lives in the Bay Area with her husband and two children.

WINNER Lorraine Twohill Chief Marketing Officer Google

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

DAYTIME DINING AWARD This award was open to licensed and unlicensed premises focused on catering to patrons daily before 6pm. The ethos of the finalists are strong on promoting local produce and offer a fresh and quality approach to their menu, atmosphere and food presentation

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

FINALISTS • CIBO Carlow • Lennons • Mullicháin Café • The Lazy River

SPONSOR:

CATERING INNOVATION AGENCY The Catering Innovation Agency designs and installs energy efficient Kitchens for Hotels, Pubs, Restaurants, and coffee Shops. The CIA has a customer list that includes Adare Manor, Ballyfin Demesne and the Kclub. While celebrity chef Richard Corrigan’s new restaurant in Ballsbridge will also feature a bespoke energy efficient kitchen from the CIA. Energy is so important and clever design allows CIA customers to combine the most efficient equipment with ergonomic layouts and pleasant working environments for staff. The C.I.A. have trade marked the words “Smarter catering equipment” it sums up exactly what we do.

SPONSOR:

NIGHTTIME DINING AWARD This award was open to licensed and unlicensed premises focused on catering to patrons after 6pm. Finalists in this category were required to demonstrate a strong focus on promoting local produce and offer a fresh and quality approach to their menu, atmosphere and food presentation.

FINALISTS • Cafe 500 • Clashganny • Curry Garden Indian Restaurant • Lennons

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

BEST PRESENTED PREMISES/SHOP FRONT - MUINE BHEAG & CARLOW SOUTH This award aims to create an awareness of the positive impression a well-presented shop front can create within the local community and to visitors alike especially when it is clean, tidy and well maintained. The Award will be judged in line with the following criteria; wellpresented window display, design consideration of signage and associated frontage (signs should be simple and easy to understand, look attractive and made from durable, high quality materials), entrance – inviting, clean & attractive, overall Maintenance of the Shop Front including, appropriateness of the shop front to the building or type of business. CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

FINALISTS • Cullens Butchers Leighlinbridge • Step House Hotel • The Parlour at Doyles • Mullicháin Café

SPONSOR:

LOVE CARLOW “Love Carlow was originally established as a re-generation project by the County Carlow Chamber of Commerce in March 2016 with the aim of establishing Carlow as a great place to live, work, shop, socialise and visit. Love Carlow is about the positive conversation, it’s about building our community, it’s about revitalising the businesses and most of all it’s about shouting about all the reasons why we Love Carlow. Love Carlow • Gift Card to support local businesses • News from around the county on the Love Carlow website • Directory listing all Businesses, Services, etc across the county, free for everyone to use and promote • Calendar of events, free access for organisers to upload details of their events • A passion for our county and the energy to make a difference”

Creating contemporary innovations and expressions for the pleasure of palates of a new era, celebrating the timeworn recipes from Ireland’s golden era of whiskey distilling.

Email: studio@ballyshane.com Phone: 00 353 (0) 86 466 8118

Ballyshane create beautiful wooden pieces, handcrafted using 100% sustainably sourced Irish Hardwoods

The Awards presented at the Carlow Business Awards 2020 & 2021 have been designed and produced specifically for the event by Ballyshane. Walsh Whiskey Email: info@walshwhiskey.com 24

The materials used are from sustainably sourced local hardwoods. CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

BEST PRESENTED PREMISES/SHOP FRONT - TULLOW & CARLOW NORTH This award aims to create an awareness of the positive impression a well-presented shop front can create within the local community and to visitors alike especially when it is clean, tidy and well maintained. The Award will be judged in line with the following criteria; wellpresented window display, design consideration of signage and associated frontage (signs should be simple and easy to understand, look attractive and made from durable, high quality materials), entrance – inviting, clean & attractive, overall Maintenance of the Shop Front including, appropriateness of the shop front to the building or type of business.

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

FINALISTS • Cafe de Mode • Murphy’s Craft Butchers • The Green Lemon • Prettymess Boutique

SPONSOR:

BEST PRESENTED PREMISES/SHOP FRONT - CARLOW TOWN This award aims to create an awareness of the positive impression a well-presented shop front can create within the local community and to visitors alike especially when it is clean, tidy and well maintained. The Award will be judged in line with the following criteria; wellpresented window display, design consideration of signage and associated frontage (signs should be simple and easy to understand, look attractive and made from durable, high quality materials), entrance – inviting, clean & attractive, overall Maintenance of the Shop Front including, appropriateness of the shop front to the building or type of business.

FINALISTS • Country Kitchen • Declan Byrne and Sons Expert Hardware • Hallmark Cards • Thomas Sunderland Photography • Sweet Baking Mama

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

CARLOW AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR Alan O’Reilly, the founder of Carlow Weather, is the recipient of the prestigious 2023 Carlow Ambassador Award. The Tullow man’s unwavering dedication to weather forecasting has made him a respected authority on weather information nationwide. This award recognises Alan’s exceptional contribution to his local community on a wider platform. Carlow Weather is now a household brand across the country with more than 200,000 followers on social media. As a regular contributor to the national airwaves, television and local media, Alan not only provides invaluable weather insights on storms and major weather events but he also showcases Carlow to a wider audience.

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

SPONSOR:

UNUM IRELAND LTD Unum Ireland serves as a strategic software development and IT services centre for Unum, a leading US provider of employee benefits. Located in the heart of the thriving centre of Carlow, that is home to many young professionals and institutions of higher learning. Unum Ireland plays a vital part in developing critical business applications and providing services to our overall company. Unum Ireland benefits from the best of both worlds, thriving on the energy, excitement and entrepreneurial spirit commonly found at a tech start-up combined with the resources of a Fortune 500 company.

WINNER Alan O’Reilly Carlow Weather

SPONSOR:

CARLOW DISTRICT CREDIT UNION Carlow District Credit Union is not for profit organisation which supports members with their lending and savings needs. Offices based in Carlow Town, Mayo-Doonane and Rathvilly. Our focus is to ensure we are supporting communities across our Common Bond in all sectors including the Agriculture, Home improvements and educational sectors and many more

PERSONAL SERVICES AWARD Finalists in this category come from a range of backgrounds – all businesses providing personal services with a strong customer service focus, eg. Hairdressers, groomers, barbers, beauticians etc. The businesses have demonstrated a focus on the future, flexibility and a willingness to take customer reviews and feedback on board.

FINALISTS • Berlin Hair • Butterfly beauty • Caroline’s Breast Care • Elm Beauty • Glamourize Hair Design • Hairology • Illuminate by Shauna • Loglo by Lorraine Glover • MD Hair • The Chalet • The Gym Carlow

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

PRESIDENTS AWARD

SPONSOR:

VISION GREEN

The prestigious President’s Award is a special award that is given at the discretion of the Chamber President at our annual awards ceremony to recognise a business or individual who is a stellar performer within he Carlow business community.

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

The winner of the Presidents Award will be announced at the Carlow Business Awards 2023 ceremony

VisionGreen Consultancy Ltd is a purpose driven Sustainability Consultancy business that supports companies of all sizes. VisionGreen consultancy assist with reducing energy costs & consumption, developing sustainability strategies and alignment with globally recognised sustainability reporting standards. They support businesses in accessing grant support to implement more efficient energy systems in their business and also provide a software solution to clients which helps in reporting and managing their carbon footprints and associated action plans. They exist to make a positive difference in the world through reducing environmental impact and driving sustainable change.

Thomas Sunderland has enjoyed a professional career in producing quality photography spanning over twenty five years. His wideranging portfolio covers wedding, portrait, fashion, commercial and advertising photography.

Sale, Hire & Installation of Professional Sound & lighting Systems

Photography is not just a profession for Thomas Sunderland but also his passion. He is proud to head a progressive wedding and portrait studio based in Carlow Town, where the aim is to exceed clients' expectations.

Weddings Portraits Commercial Work Models & Fashion

E: info@thomassunderland.ie

Hedgehog Productions specialise in m ideally suited for online marketing. They to produce your videos including devel voice over artists and arrang

E: Steve Corry stevecorrypremier@eircom.net 30

P: 087 997 1961

P: +353 (0) 59 9142278

Carlow Awards2022 2023 Carlow Business Business Awards Event Photographer CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS event photographer

2023

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RETAILER OF THE YEAR AWARD This category is open to all Co. Carlow business operating in retailing (offline and/or online) who will have shown a commitment to offering the highest levels of service to each and every customer. Evaluation will consider customer service; retail experience, shop layout, accessibility and offering, creativity in merchandising.

FINALISTS • Ballybar Ireland • Detail Menswear • O’Toole’s Service Station • Prettymess Boutique • Rea’s Department Store • Tile N Style

SPONSOR:

BARROW TRAINING & CONSULTANCY BARROW TRAINING & CONSULTANCY We are experts in delivering professional and accredited training courses and consultancy. Offering in-classroom, online, virtual, and blended learning options we have something for all learner types and levels. We are ISO 9001 registered and QQI quality assured - ensuring we meet and adhere to strict high standards. We keep students’ needs at the heart of everything we do and offer high quality training our courses are taught by experts in their industries.

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

SPONSOR:

AIB

AIB is a financial services group operating in Ireland and the United Kingdom. We provide a range of services to retail, business and corporate customers, with market-leading positions in key segments. With over 2.8 million customers, we are committed to supporting the transition to a lowcarbon economy and backing sustainable communities. Customers are welcome to visit us in our Carlow and Tullow branches.

FAMILY BUSINESS OF THE YEAR The family business truly is the backbone of the Irish economy, from small homegrown businesses to established and international family run businesses. FINALISTS should tell the story of their Family Business and the industry they operate in, demonstrating the uniqueness of brand or quality in products, services and delivery mechanisms. The judges are looking for details on the family members that work in the business and how it is structured in terms of responsibilities, decision making and co-operation; and an understanding of how being family owned helps with the success of your business.

FINALISTS • Cheetah Electronics • Doyles Royal Oak Ltd • Seamus Byrne Electrical Ltd • The Lazy River

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD This award recognises the importance of excellence in customer service among companies committed to offering the highest values of customer care. Finalists will need to demonstrate how they consistently go the extra mile for their customers and the impact this has had on their business.

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

FINALISTS • Curry Garden Indian Restaurant • Dame Ladies Fashion • J. W. Tyres Ltd • Organic Corner • Tip Top Toes Carlow

SPONSOR:

JONES BUSINESS SYSTEMS Jones Business Systems supply products and services to the business, office, and educational sectors nationwide. With our team of 120 people, we have specific divisions to cater for our customers’ needs offering fully managed and outsourced I.T. services and equipment, office planning design and fitout, washroom, and canteen solutions, next day delivery of supplies from our range of over 25,000 products, and a print and design department to promote our customers’ brand and marketing. We operate from 10 locations across the country including our 15,000 sq. ft head office in Carlow which houses retail, a customer support team, our I.T support desk and warehousing & distribution. Our products and services can also be purchased and viewed online at jonesbusinesssystems.ie and www.officestuff.ie.

SPONSOR:

BURNSIDE AUTOCYL LTD Founded in 1974, Burnside Autocyl is a family owned company, which produces Hydraulic Cylinders for supply to world leading Original Equipment Manufacturers. Located in Tullow Co. Carlow the company exports over 80% of all its product to 16 different countries worldwide. It also has a subsidiary manufacturing company in Pennsylvania USA. Cylinders can be described as the muscles which power mobile machinery enabling them to lift and manoeuvre people and products into place. Burnside cylinders can be found on products such Forklifts, Telehandlers, Loading Shovels, Aerial Work Platforms to name but a few applications. In its 48 years of existence the Burnside Group of companies has grown to become one of the largest employers in County Carlow.

CARLOW’S LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Michael Doyle (Topline Doyle’s Hardware) is the recipient of this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award. A truly multi-generational family business, Doyle’s of the Shamrock was founded by Michael’s great grandfather James and opened its doors on St Patricks Day 1884. When Michael Doyle took over as Chairman and CEO of the company, it employed ten people and consisted of not just a hardware store but a bar and grocery also. Under his guidance, Topline Doyle’s has flourished and today boasts two successful hardware stores located in Carlow and Tullow, a wholesale business in Castlecomer & Lots for Less, a retail cash and carry based near the site in Carlow.

WINNER Michael Doyle Topline Doyle’s Hardware

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

OUTSTANDING SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR The outstanding small business award recognises those businesses employing less than 10 people on a full time basis, based in Co Carlow and environs for a minimum of five years and identify as Carlow. Finalists demonstrated success in steady company growth and employment and have made a contribution to community. They have a proved track record of delivery and are committed to their company development and future growth through staff development, innovation and sustainability.

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

FINALISTS • Carroll Estimating Ltd • Equinox Education Services • EquiRatings Limited • Harney Nolan Chartered Accountants • John Paul Payne Makeup • REA Sothern • Suantraí Montessori Tinryland • Tile N Style

SPONSOR:

Calling ALL CARLOW BUSINESSES! Say thanks to your team

and support shopping local with the LoveCarlow gift card

A tax efficient way to thank your staff this Christmas! Contact admin@carlowchamber.com

to find out more

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

OUTSTANDING MEDIUM BUSINESS OF THE YEAR The outstanding medium business award recognises those businesses employing less than 50 people on a full time basis, based in Co Carlow and environs for a minimum of five years and identify as Carlow. Finalists demonstrated success in steady company growth and employment and have made a contribution to community. They have a proven track record of delivery and are committed to their company development and future growth through staff development, innovation and sustainability.

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

FINALISTS • 2eva • Berlin Hair • Doyles Royal Oak Ltd • The Lazy River • Kellys of Borris • Newhaven Kitchens & Bedrooms Ltd

SPONSOR:

HORIZON SAFETY SYSTEMS LTD Horizon Safety Systems Ltd supply, install, commission, certify and maintain Fire Alarm, Emergency Lighting, Gas Detection, Fixed Fire Suppression, CCTV, Intruder Alarm, Access Control Systems, and Fire Extinguishers throughout the country. Horizon provide monitoring solutions for CCTV, Intruder and Fire Systems. Working in all sectors, including Healthcare, Hospitality, Pharmaceutical, Education and Construction. Horizon has field engineers based around the country so reducing travelling time and cost and for prompt delivery for any on-call service which is provided 24/7. Based in Gateway Business Centre and operating since 2006 Horizon have the experience and knowledge to look after all the Fire Safety and Security requirements in any sector to the highest standard, nationally. Contact us on 059 9182 517

SPONSOR:

BANK OF IRELAND Bank of Ireland Group is one of the largest financial services groups in Ireland providing a broad range of banking and other financial services. The Group has the largest network of retail branches and ATM outlets in Ireland, as well as partnerships in the UK with the Post Office and the AA. The Group’s international business is conducted by its Corporate Banking and Global Markets teams from Dublin, London, continental Europe and the United States.

FINALISTS

CARLOW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR The Carlow Business of the Year Award recognizes businesses for noteworthy accomplishments and long-standing contribution to the local economy. The FINALISTS will have made a visible contribution in the past three years that reflects a sustainable, innovative, & creative future and has a continuing positive impact on the community.

• Aptus • Delmec Engineering Ltd • Rathwood Home & Garden World • Seamus Byrne Electrical • Seerys Heatherfield Ltd • Walsh Juice

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

The Board of County Carlow Chamber are delighted to announce this evening that their 2023/2024 Charity Partner is the Carlow branch of

Chamber Members for Charity 2023/2024

Down Syndrome Ireland

To find out more about the work that Down Syndrome Ireland do, scan this QR code

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023

Scan here to find out about membership today

CARLOW BUSINESS AWARDS

2023