County Kildare Chamber Chronicle Nov 2021

ISSUE 4 - NOVEMBER 2021

INSIDE THIS ISSUE IN THE HOT SEAT WITH PROFESSOR EEVA LEINONEN, PRESIDENT MAYNOOTH UNIVERSITY

SUSTAINABLE KILDARE CHAMPIONSHIP

GRANT THORNTON IRISH BUSINESS VOICE PROGRAMME

CEO ALLAN SHINE 10 YEARS AT THE HELM

Corporate Partners 2021

ISSUE 4 - November 2021

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C o nt e n t s

Sustainable Kildare Coming together to make one small change at a time

02 Lilywhite News Snippets 04 Chamber Golf Classic 2021 06 Sustainable Kildare 09 Irish Business Voice programme 10 Movers & Shakers

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11 Green for Micro programme 13 Kildare Meath Grid Update 14 Gas Networks Ireland

In the hot seat with Prof Eeva Leinonen New President of Maynooth University

16 Life Credit Union 18 In the hot seat 20 CEO Allan Shine – 10 years at the helm 24 New Members 25 Membership Listing 28 Member Testimonials

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Allan Shine Celebrates 10 years as CEO of County Kildare Chamber

FOREWORD

It is my absolute privilege to be re-elected as President of County Kildare Chamber and I look forward to a very exciting year ahead. Our Chamber is one of the most dynamic, proactive and forward-thinking business organisations in the country. We continue to grow and evolve on a yearly basis and the fact that we managed to grow our membership throughout Covid is a remarkable achievement. For this, I must commend the dedication, drive and hard work of our CEO Allan Shine and Marketing & Communications Manager Jennifer Forster. I also must commend our membership, as it is the quality of the businesses in our Chamber, that makes joining the Chamber such an attractive proposition.

Over the next number of months, I want to ensure the needs of our membership is at the forefront of everything we do. It is with this in mind that we are in the process of recruiting a Public Affairs Manager to join the Chamber team.

This will further strengthen our role as policy drivers in the county, while strengthening our engagement with local and national Government to the benefit of our membership. I also feel it is essential that the Chamber returns to hosting in person events for the next twelve months. Live events are the heartbeat of our organisation, where our membership can socialise, network and build relationships. I am delighted to see the announcement of our Christmas Lunch on the 9th December where we will be hosting former Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern. This will be the first of many live events the Chamber will be hosting and I look forward to the return of the Summer Expo, our Awards Night, the Ambassadors lunch and many more.

I would like to say thank you for all the hard work of our board and particularly our Vice President Mairead Hennessy.

Finally, as 2021 comes to a close we can all look forward to 2022 with a sense of hope and optimism. Together, with the Chamber staff and our board members, I look forward to representing you all as President of the Chamber for the next 12 months.

Luke Hanahoe President, County Kildare Chamber

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ISSUE 4 - November 2021

ModusLink helping Irish eCommerce Businesses Scale!

Security Company Manguard Plus, is celebrating its 25th Anniversary in business.

The company has grown from employing a tiny number of staff to cementing itself as one of Ireland’s most important employers with a large number of highprofile clients and an enviable reputation in Ireland and beyond as one of the most professional companies in the industry. Manguard Plus CEO Sean Hall said: “What a milestone for ‘Manguard Plus’ as we celebrate this hugely important date in our business journey”. “It’s been a collaborative achievement and one that has only been realised by hard work, a commitment to a top-class service for clients and dedicated, professional and trustworthy staff.

ModusLink Corporation, a leading global supply chain management services company, announces the launch of their newly created website developed specifically for the Irish marketplace. ModusLink Ireland’s successful operations in Kildare has been providing supply chain solutions to both multinational and indigenous clients for over 35 years. The new website is fast, easy to navigate and very user-friendly for those looking for supply chain and e-business services in Ireland. The new website is now live and can be viewed at www. moduslink.ie.

An all-island distribution centre for Kildare

Kildare County Council has given the green light for a €118 million Primark distribution centre in Newbridge, Co Kildare, that is to deliver more than 200 jobs.

The all-island Penney’s distribution centre at Great Connell, Newbridge, will employ 212 people when operational. €43 million will be spent on the base build for the project.

An additional €75 million is to be spent by the retailer on the internal fit-out and equipment for the semi-automated centre. The facility is estimated to be 500,000 sq ft, and will comprise of a distribution centre, warehouse and office space on the 38-acre site.

Cill Dara le Gaeilge Cill Dara le Gaeilge recently appointed the first ever Irish language Executive Officer in County Kildare. Sarah Walsh started in the new role during September and over the coming months she will begin working with local businesses that wish to promote their business through the Irish language. Sarah will work with County Kildare Chamber, local business and enterprise bodies to support business owners that are interested in pursuing Irish language related projects; bilingual signage, marketing, website development, social media engagement etc. Sarah will begin working with community groups based in the Naas Municipal area that are organising Irish language events and will play a key advisory and supportive role.

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ISSUE 4 - November 2021

Allenwood Community Development Association win €920k Funding Allenwood Community Development Association are delighted to confirm that a final offer has been awarded to ACDAL Allenwood from the Just Transition Fund to develop approximately 8 acres of land into serviced sites.

This overall fund of €920,000 will facilitate new enterprise and job creation for the community of Allenwood and its neighbouring villages and towns in North West Kildare.

Dee Nix Celebrates 20 years as General Manager of Killashee Hotel In October, Killashee Hotel celebrated their General Manager, Dee Nix & her 20 year milestone at the Hotel.

Dee’s help, support and guidance has got the team through the good times, and the not so good times.

Orla McCabe, Director of Sales said: ‘It really is the team here which makes Killashee so special and we are very lucky to work under such longstanding leadership.

Plans set in motion for Newbridge’s most central business park Military Road in the commercial heart of Newbridge is the location for Newbridge Enterprise Park, which will comprise a cluster of commercial units in a mixture of varying sizes, with generous car parking throughout the development. The enterprise park, a Treacy Group development, is expected to attract a host of well-known brands to the area, offering more choice to the large local population of Newbridge, to the 5 million + consumers who visit the Newbridge Retail Park and Whitewater Shopping Centre annually, and to the 450,000 visitors to the nearby Newbridge Silverware facility each year.

T&I Fitouts recently involved in carrying out essential redevelopment work on Focus Ireland’s High Street Dublin 8 premises.

The building which is a hub office for all the charities in Dublin and nationwide services, is home to over 100 support staff. All the work and materials on the project were provided pro bono to Focus Ireland, meaning that the funds that would have been needed to upgrade the building can be redeployed to front line services.

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ISSUE 4 - November 2021

1st Place (109pts) – Kildare County Council

2nd Place (103pts) – Go Rentals

3rd Place (102pts) – Queally Group

On Thursday 2nd September, the Chamber hosted its annual Chamber Golf classic in the beautiful K Club. 29 teams were in attendance, with a two tee start off the 1st & 10th hole. This event was very kindly sponsored by Gannon Office Solutions.

Congratulations to our winners on the day!

Prizes kindly sponsored by:

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Give the gift of choice with Kildare Village This Christmas, treat your employees to a designer day out, compliments of one little card.

Redeemable at all of the Village’s 100 boutiques, the Kildare Village Gift Card lets your employees indulge in leading luxury brands, all with up to 60% off the recommended retail price.

Discover an extraordinary open-air shopping experience in a beautifully landscaped setting, with exceptional hospitality, five-star guest services and a superb selection of restaurants, cafés and delicious treats to enjoy on the go.

To purchase Kildare Village Gift Cards, or to find out more, visit KildareVillage.com/corporate-gift-card

© Kildare Village 2021

ISSUE 4 - November 2021

• Empower employees to take action

through challenges and educational workshops.

Sustainable Kildare is an environmental action project led

by County Kildare Chamber and sponsored by Intel to help change employee’s lifestyle habits, to help reduce personal emissions through an interactive challenge and educational workshops.

The three-week campaign encourages staff to save as much CO2 as possible by registering daily, eco-friendly activities and making small changes in their lifestyle. Over the 3-week campaign, participants will undertake an average take of 162 eco-friendly actions each, for example switching off unnecessary lights, taking shorter showers and using public transport in place of car journeys.

The aims of the campaign: • To engage businesses within

County Kildare and the Chamber

to think about climate action.

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Raise awareness about climate action and personal emissions.

•

Equip businesses with the knowledge to implement sustainable business goals in the future.

The project was launched by Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar together with Martin Heydon, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture and Kildare South TD, Kildare Chamber Chief Executive Allan Shine and Intel’s External Relations Manager Lisa Harlow.

Speaking about the launch of this new project, Intel External Relations Manager Lisa Harlow said “Kildare has been our proud home here in Ireland for over 30 years and we are delighted to have the opportunity to work together with small and medium businesses from across the county on this new project. Our world is facing challenges unlike any we have seen before and the urgent need for action on issues like climate change calls for a new era of shared responsibility”.

“This project gives us an important opportunity to create a lasting environmental impact, not only in measurable carbon savings that will be achieved over the course of the challenge, but in the awareness that is raised and the behavioural changes that will ripple from the businesses and their staff into the wider community”.

Allan Shine, CEO of County Kildare Chamber said “What you eat, what you wear and how you get about are all habits that businesses and their employees can adapt in order to live and work in a more sustainable way. If we choose more sustainable suppliers and products, we can shift the market to be more sustainable. Our vision is firstly to raise awareness for both businesses and their employees in order to reduce carbon emissions in Kildare. Through this programme, which includes a suite of workshops delivered by UN specialists, we hope that our members in Kildare will lead the climate challenge for Ireland”. This initiative is kindly supported by the Local Enterprise Office Kildare.

Want to get involved?

The first of three campaigns kicked off on the 19th October – Kildare businesses can sign up for the next round which will be happening in January 2022. Email Jennifer@ countykildarechamber.ie for more information/ to get signed up.

TOYOTA NAAS

TOYOTA TRANSPORT SOLUTIONS

As a local business with roots back to 1954, we know exactly what challenges businesses face on a daily basis. At Toyota Naas, we work with a wide variety of local businesses and industries, to provide them with a total transport solution.

Whether you simply need someone to service your car or fleet of vans, to purchasing a new car or leasing, our dedicated business manager, Aaron, will be happy to assist you on your journey.

If leasing sounds like the right option for you, Kinto One is a new product from Toyota that includes all servicing, annual tax, tyres, NCT / CVRT. From a business perspecive, there’s no initial outlay, protection against depreciation, it’s hassle free and there’s fixed monthly costs for easier budgeting.

Prices start from €79 per week* Both passenger and commercial options available.

Contact aaron.dunney@toyotanaas.ie to tailor a quote for you and your business.

045 897 589

WWW.CROSSINGS.IE

County Kildare Chamber

HR PARTNERSHIP PROGRAMME

Adare Human Resource Management is one of Ireland's leading HR, Employment Law and Health & Safety Consultancies.

Through our HR Partnership Programme, we are here to support Kildare Chamber members with any specific HR or employment challenge.

HR SPECIALISTS I

SO YOU DON T HAVE TO BE ADVICE

BENEFITS FOR CHAMBER MEMBERS

Human Resources and Employment Law

SUPPORT

Ongoing HR Support and Management

GUIDANCE

Employment Law Compliance to Best Practice HR

REPRESENTATION WRC and Labour Court

(01) 561 3594

Dedicated and Experienced HR & Employment Law Consultants

Supporting the development of HR strategic & operational plans

Audit and review of HR documentation and update same to ensure compliance

For more information contact Michelle McDonagh at adarechambers@adarehrm.ie or on (01) 561 3594

info@adarehrm.ie 2nd Floor, 43-51 Temple Grove House, Temple Road, Blackrock, Co. Dublin Tel.: (01) 561 3594

www.adarehrm.ie

4240 Atlantic Avenue, Westpark Business Campus, Shannon, Co. Clare Tel.: (061) 363 805

Penrose Wharf Business Centre, 14 Penrose Wharf, Cork Tel.: (021) 486 1420

ISSUE 4 - November October 2021 2021

During the summer Grant Thornton, with the support of local chambers of commerce launched the Irish Business Voice programme. The purpose of the programme was to uncover the concerns, issues and hurdles facing Irish businesses today, and follow up with a programme of communication addressing those issues. The aim was to arm Irish businesses with the advice and information needed to support the move into their next stage of sustainable growth, whatever that maybe.

We invited you, our members, to participate in the inaugural survey to help ascertain what the pertinent concerns and obstacles may be. The businesses of Kildare answered the call and had the highest number of respondents, providing almost a third of the responses.

The next step in the programme will be to issue a report on the data gathered, later in October. The report will examine the responses through a number of different lenses such as firm turnover, number of employees, sector, and ownership structure, to provide insight into the nuances of how different firms have been impacted, and their ambitions for the year ahead.

The report will explore which sectors have been hit hardest and which have fared better. The examination of the responses will be summarized under relevant themes which emerged during the survey phase of the programme; it will explore the areas of great concern to Irish businesses; and it will indicate key actions which may be taken in order to help mitigate the worst possible impacts.

From a more positive perspective, the examination of the data will also highlight the areas of least concern to Irish firms as indicated in the responses and the report will explore some of the rationale behind this.

After the report has issued, Grant Thornton in conjunction with the Irish chambers, will be reaching out to Irish businesses with proactive and actionable advice, so if an area of note in this report resonates with you or your business, be sure to keep an eye on the Grant Thornton and and Irish chambers websites, ezines and social media for details on publications, webinars and workshops on these topics. There is a plethora of advice and supports available for Irish businesses to support sustainable growth into the future and it is important that businesses engage with their advisors and local chambers so as to ascertain the next best steps for them to grow sustainably.

The Irish Business Voice Programme report issued on the 18th October and is now available on the County Kildare Chamber website.

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ISSUE 4 - November 2021

THE OSPREY HOTEL - LOUISE BROWN We are thrilled to welcome Louise Brown to the Osprey Hotel team as Corporate Sales Manager. Louise brings a wealth of experience in the hotel and tourism industry to her new role. Louise is a graduate of Dublin Institute of Technology where she achieved a BA and BSC in Hotel and Restaurant Management. During her time in college, she worked in food and beverage at the renowned 5 star K Club. In October 2010 she moved to the Conrad Hotel on Earlsfort Terrace Dublin and gained vast experience in reception, conferencing and events. Louise was part of the Conrad team for seven years before moving to Carton House, where she spent a busy year in the conference and events team. A change in career brought Louise to Wallace Travel Group, where she worked on the reverse side of the business, selling Ireland as a destination to overseas visitors and placing business with many of the country’s wonderful hotels, transport companies, tour guides and attractions. Louise is married to Rory and has a little girl named Chloe.

She lives in Kildare, which means a very short commute to the office, a real bonus as she’s been used to driving to the city every day.

MODUSLINK - JAMES STEELE ModusLink are delighted to announce the appointment of James Steele as Country Sales Director.

A senior commercial executive with previous experience in Life Sciences, Foreign Direct Investment and Professional Services, Steele’s role is to build on the strong track record of ModusLink Ireland and to develop new markets. ModusLink Ireland have recently launched new growth initiatives to work with Irish eCommerce Businesses to support international growth across Supply Chain & Fulfilment solutions.

CILL DARA LE GAEILGE – SARAH WALSH Cill Dara le Gaeilge recently appointed the first ever Irish language Executive Officer in County Kildare. Sarah Walsh started in the new role during September and will work with local businesses that wish to promote their business through the Irish language. Sarah will work with Kildare Chamber of Commerce, local business and enterprise bodies to support business owners that are interested in pursuing Irish language related projects; bilingual signage, marketing, website development, social media engagement etc. Sarah will work with community groups based in the Naas Municipal area that are organising Irish language events and play a key advisory and supportive role.

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ISSUE 4 - November 2021

Kildare Businesses Achieve Cost Savings by ‘Going Green’ with new Kildare Local Enterprise Office Programme Kildare businesses are being offered a unique opportunity to make significant cost savings. The Green for Micro programme is an initiative of Kildare Local Enterprise Office with support from Enterprise Ireland to help small businesses achieve cost savings and prepare for the resource efficient economy of the future.

The programme features a free of charge one-to-one mentorship with a sector specific expert Green Consultant, worth €1,800.

Why ‘green’?

Recent survey results show that 33% of respondents plan to switch to businesses which are doing more about sustainability, while 49% also said they intend to become better informed about the impact their purchasing has on the planet. With climate change, changing regulations, rising resource costs and changing customer expectations, adopting an eco-friendlier approach is the best way forward for business.

Benefits to Businesses

Whatever the sector, developing a ‘greener’ policy can offer many benefits to businesses such as: • Achieving increased cost-savings and improved resource efficiency • Accessing grant funding and environmental certification • Gaining competitive advantage • Opportunities for higher and additional value on products and services • Improved corporate image

Kildare Local Enterprise Office Supporting the Transition With the help of an expert sector specific Green Consultant, small businesses in Kildare can get free advice and technical support on resource efficiency and how to implement an environmental management system to reduce costs.

Kildare SMEs Success with Green for Micro Programme

LEO provided us with an excellent opportunity to continue this journey by meeting with our mentor Deirdre. Deirdre was incredibly energetic and provided us with fantastic solutions which led us to look much harder into our supply chain and to try and buy as locally and diversly as possible. We are introducing eco hampers and are going to continue our work on sourcing eco packaging. The programme has helped us take a huge step forward in our eco journey to a circular economy and we are very excited to continue that journey.

Louise Lonergan, Lonergan Group: https://lcgifts.ie https://healthsafetyproducts.eu “The Green for Micro programme is to help us identify cost savings and improve the green credentials of our hotel. This will be achieved by looking at our business from an environmental perspective. We look at energy, water and waste costs, along with environmental management system, to the ‘greening’ of our business to adapt the changing market trends. The programme will help us make more informed decisions to lower the carbon footprint and improve the environmental profile of the Clanard Court Hotel in the marketplace.”

John Kelly, The Clanard Court Hotel www.clanardcourt.ie

For more information visit

www.LocalEnterprise.ie/Green or contact Kildare Local Enterprise Office at localenterprise@kildarecoco.ie or 045980838

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ISSUE 4 - November 2021

EirGrid Takes Step Forward on KildareMeath Grid Upgrade

EirGrid, the semi-state company that runs the national electricity grid, has taken a significant step forward on the key Kildare-Meath Grid Upgrade project.

The company announced at the end of August that it is seeking the public’s help in selecting a preferred underground route for the high-capacity cable that will connect Dunstown substation near Two Mile House in Kildare with Woodland substation in Meath.

It will also help meet the growing demand for electricity in the East. This growth is due to increased economic activity and the planned connection of new large-scale IT industry infrastructure in the region.

The four route options travel primarily along the public road network between the two substations and EirGrid is seeking to avoid agricultural lands, motorways, town centres and industrial estates where possible.

The development is essential to help meet the Government of Ireland’s Climate Action Plan target of at least 70% of electricity usage to be met by renewable sources by 2030.

EirGrid has set up a Kildare-Meath Grid Upgrade Community Forum, which will act as a consultative body throughout the development of the project.

It will provide advice to EirGrid on key project developments such as:

Michael Mahon, EirGrid chief infrastructure officer, explains: “This is an important infrastructure project. Last year we conducted an extensive public consultation, during which we wrote to 45,000 homes across the two counties, seeking feedback on technical solutions for the project. We are now seeking feedback on four potential routes for the project following a determination that an underground cable was the best performing option.”

The project will help to more effectively transfer significant large amounts of clean, renewable power to the east of the country and distribute it within the electricity network in Meath, Kildare and surrounding counties.

Michael Mahon adds: “Public feedback will play an important role in developing the project. We want to minimise the impact on communities and seek to avoid going through private and agricultural land and sensitive locations where possible.”

• How best to communicate and engage with the public • Considerations in developing the project •

The lengths of the four options range from 47km to 51km. While most of the cable route in each option can be laid in the road network, each will require some of the route to be constructed off-road.

These off-road corridors range from 5km to 12km and are currently being investigated and analysed by the EirGrid project team.

How to deliver meaningful community benefit to the area where the infrastructure is hosted.

The consultation runs until November 22nd. To find out more about the four route options and to have your say, visit www.eirgrid.ie/KildareMeath or email KildareMeath@eirgrid.com

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ISSUE 4 - November 2021

Kildare at the forefront of renewable gas production.

Climate change is one of the greatest and most urgent global challenges we face, and we all have a responsibility to act. Transitioning to a clean energy economy by 2050 requires a balance between sustainability, security and affordability. Leveraging existing energy assets and capabilities will enable Ireland to reach its targets effectively.

Ireland’s €2.7bn, 14,617km national gas network is considered one of the safest and most modern gas networks in the world. A vital national asset, it is the cornerstone of Ireland’s energy system, securely supplying more than 31% of Ireland’s total energy, including 40% of all heating and 52% of the country’s electricity generation. Over 706,000 Irish homes and businesses trust Ireland’s gas network to provide affordable and reliable energy to meet their heating and cooking needs.

Producing significantly less carbon dioxide than coal and oil, natural gas has been helping Ireland reduce its carbon footprint since it was discovered off the coast of Cork in the 1970s. However, while natural gas is the cleanest conventional fuel, Ireland must transition to more sustainable alternatives to meet its climate action targets. By replacing natural gas with renewable gases, such as biomethane and hydrogen, and complementing intermittent renewable electricity, Ireland can substantially reduce its carbon emissions while ensuring a secure energy supply.

Kildare is playing a lead role in Ireland’s renewable energy agenda, with Nurney company, Green Generation investing locally in new infrastructure that will facilitate the development of biomethane. The €2.5m facility has the capacity to supply 11,000 homes with carbon neutral biomethane derived from agricultural and food waste.

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Anaerobic digestion facilities also provide additional revenue sources for local communities from the sale of biomethane, feedstock used to produce the renewable gas, and a biofertiliser that is a by-product of the process, providing longterm, sustainable and diversified employment opportunities and income streams.

Green Generation’s, Billy Costello said: “We are proud to be at the forefront of developing a new green energy for Ireland and to have renewable gas flowing on Ireland’s gas network.

Renewable gas can not only solve our energy issues, but it can also help deliver a truly sustainable circular economy, by harnessing food and animal waste to deliver clean energy.”

The biomethane is then injected into the network via Ireland’s first renewable gas entry point built by Gas Networks Ireland in nearby Cush. It can be used in the same way as natural gas within existing infrastructure, technologies and appliances and is already playing a pivotal role in creating one of Ireland’s most innovative circular economies with leading businesses powering their operations with biomethane produced from their own food waste.

Gas Networks Ireland’s Managing Director, Denis O’Sullivan, said: “Biomethane is a key pillar in our vision to fully decarbonise the gas network by 2050, along with hydrogen.

Replacing natural gas with renewable gases is seamless and can reduce emissions across key sectors of the economy, including electricity, industry, heat, transport and agriculture.”

Kildare Chamber members interested in reducing their carbon footprint by connecting their home or business to the gas network should visit www.gasnetworks.ie to start their journey today or to arrange a free consultation. For more information regarding providing waste for renewable gas production, purchasing renewable gas for your home or business, or investing in renewable gas production, please email renewablegas@gasnetworks.ie.

Progres

Moving Ireland towards a cleaner energy future Naturally, everyone wants cleaner, affordable and reliable energy.

Natural gas provides Irish homes, businesses and industries with exactly that.

The national gas network powers 30% of Ireland’s primary energy needs, 40% of the country’s heating and 50% of our electricity generation.

And now, with the introduction of renewable gas into our network, we’re moving Ireland towards an even cleaner energy future.

Discover more at gasnetworks.ie/progress

#ProgressNaturally

Life Credit Union is a member owned financial services provider serving its members and the community since 1968. Established in Naas, Life Credit Union has become one of Ireland’s largest community Credit Unions with branches in Newbridge, Maynooth, Monread Shopping Centre and the branch on the main street of Naas. Life Credit Union offers a wide range of ethical financial services, with membership open to anyone living or working in the above towns and surrounding areas. With a staff of 51 and over 39,000 members, Life Credit Union is embedded in the local community. The business is made up of highly skilled and multi-disciplined management team and staff as well as a Board of Directors comprised of well-respected professionals from Kildare.

Pandemic Supports and Upgrading Services During the pandemic, Life Credit Union continued to support its members through our branch network and online services, provide banking services and lending to facilitate home improvements, working from home pods and other Covid essentials. Several promotions were implemented to support members, including a debt consolidation loan product that helped members by allowing them to consolidate multiple debts into one low rate monthly payment. We introduced a low-rate product to help parents cover the increased cost of back to school, allowing them to spread the costs over a period of time to make the rising costs more manageable .

Life CU also completed a digital transformation throughout the pandemic, allowing members to borrow quickly and easily online, with funds transferred to their account without the need to visit a branch. A new app and online banking 16

service now allows new members to open accounts and apply for loans remotely, at a time that suits them. Our branches continue to serve our members face-to-face, which remains crucial at a time when a number of banks are leaving the Irish market or closing branches in Kildare.

Life@Work Programme for Local Business We are always looking at ways in which we can support our community, which includes our local businesses. As a way of supporting businesses and their employees, we implemented a free financial wellness programme called Life@Work. This dedicated programme was created to help employees manage their overall financial wellness more effectively. There is no cost to employers, and it compliments nicely with existing employee assistance or wellbeing programmes companies may already have in place. The programme provides on-site visits, virtual presentations, a monthly newsletter that shares well-being tips from respected wellness professionals in Kildare, spotlights local businesses and showcases some of the excellent suite of products available with the Credit Union.

These include Home Improvement Loans, Car Loans, Student Loans and Mortgages, as well as our new Current Account.

Several businesses and clubs have joined the programme and enjoy the benefits for the business and staff. Blackberry Hearing in Two Mile House are one such company that have partnered with the Life@Work programme. Business Development Manager for Blackberry Hearing Evelyn McKeogh said of the programme “Blackberry Hearing are delighted to be a partner of the Life@Work programme with Life Credit Union. We have been featured in the Life@Work newsletter and have offered Life Credit Union members an excellent offer on our hearing aids. There is also an opportunity to finance our products with the Credit Union for our Kildare customers.

ISSUE 4 - November 2021 range of banking services, including personal loans, current account, mortgages, and online services. We have already experienced several consumers switching from other banks and choosing their trusted Credit Union for the future of their banking needs.

The Current Account offered by Life Credit Union offers members a MasterCard, free point of sale and contactless payments, free standing orders and debit processing, overdraft facility and full mobile and internet banking. There is a low monthly fee of €4, which finance experts say is the best value in the market. With a smooth switching process in place, customers looking to make that switch will find it a seamless and efficient process”.

We have installed our corporate hearing pods in Life CU Monread and Newbridge branches to give free hearing testing to their members and for anyone that visits the branch.

Our staff have also availed of excellent loan rates as we are kept informed of new initiatives each month as part of the programme. It is proving to be a great collaboration between two local businesses, and I would highly recommend working with Life Credit Union to any company looking to support their employees”. The benefits to an employer partnering with the programme include an easy payroll deduction for staff, no cost to the organisation, dedicated support from our Life@Work team that will build a programme and deliver presentations based on staff requirements and suggestions.

The benefits for an employee are access to flexible loans at great rates, free life savings insurance, free online banking and also an opportunity to join our members monthly car draw with prizes of a car (or €12,000 cash), €3,000 cash and €1,500 cash every month.

Current Banking Landscape As two banking providers, Ulster Bank and KBC, depart the Irish market, Credit Unions are looking to position themselves as a viable and preferred alternative for anyone affected or for anyone looking to review their current banking services.

CEO of Life Credit Union Karen Mulligan said “The departure of Ulster Bank and KBC and the withdrawal of services by other banks will mean that many banking customers will be looking for a new home. Life Credit Union can offer a full

Life Credit Union in the Community Community supports, sponsorships and donations are part of the fabric of Life Credit Union and we have continued to work hard throughout the pandemic to continue support clubs, causes and initiatives that benefit the community in Kildare.

This is another key aspect to why the Credit Union continues to play such an integral part of the community in Kildare.

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ISSUE 4 - November 2021

IN THE HOT SEAT

Professor Eeva Leinonen took up office as President of Maynooth University last month and is the first woman in the role and only the third female to lead a traditional Irish university.

Prof. Leinonen takes over from Professor Philip Nolan who we all know from his 10-year stint in the role and most recently from his chairing of the NPHET Epidemiological Modelling Advisory Group.

A Finnish native arriving in Ireland having worked in the education arena in both Australia and the UK, Eeva recently sat down (virtually!) with Allan Shine to discuss her new role and her vision for Maynooth University.

Allan: How important is it for you to be the first female President of Maynooth University?

Eeva: I believe it to be a significant milestone for Maynooth University but its not unusual internationally. What is most important is that the President provides confidence, has the necessary skillset and cultural fit. I am actually the first female University President to hold the position twice, I was President of a University in Australia also. I have not experienced many barriers to career progression to date, only opportunities. It is possible to have a career, a family and a life outside of work.

Allan: What is your sense of the relationships Maynooth have with the key stakeholders in Kildare?

Eeva: This is the only University in our region so it is very important that we work closely with businesses, community groups and other organisations. We need to focus on strategic relationships going forward that bring value and we need to understand the strategic vision of our partners.

Post pandemic, the way we work, socialise, commute will change. The University has excellent research capabilities coupled with work placement and internship opportunities for businesses to engage with it. So it is crucial we identify and understand our shared values and work closely together going forward. My main focus is to work with the Kildare community, including SMEs, which can benefit from embracing internships, placements and other opportunities we provide.

A key ambition I have is to have a clear “Front Door” for the University. Businesses need to find the right person, the right department quickly. Often universities can be seen as complex organisations that are not easy to navigate.

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Allan: What would you like to achieve in your role in your first 12 months?

Eeva: My first task is to listen and to engage. Our new strategy is due to be refreshed so this is a great opportunity for me to listen and to learn. Also, next year, we are reaching another milestone – the University will be 25 years old.

One area that is important to focus on is post-graduate curriculum. This is relevant as we enter the post-pandemic world, and there is more need for people to up-skill and re-skill in their workplaces.

We are very strong in research; we are perfectly positioned to research challenges that businesses may be facing.

Digital transformation has such an impact on our lives in different ways--for example, child development, mental health and society in general. Our University can play a significant role in this area. Working with the Chamber will enable us in the University to work and engage with businesses going forward.

Allan: What makes Maynooth University stand out from other Universities in Ireland?

ISSUE 4 - November 2021

Eeva: High-quality innovative education, world-class research that has positive societal impact, and transformational educational opportunities for all who can benefit irrespective of background are hallmarks of Maynooth University and resonate closely with my approach to university education.

Our 25th anniversary next year affords us an opportunity to pause, reflect and plan for the years ahead. Due to its rapid enrollment growth, its diverse student population, its youthful and collegial attitude toward multi-disciplinary research, and its strengths in fields that are critical to Ireland’s economic future, I believe Maynooth University can play a significant role in preparing for next-generation Ireland. We are well placed to further develop our under graduate and post-graduate offering in Maynooth. This will happen by working collaboratively with colleagues across the University, with students, the Governing Authority, Academic Council, the Irish education sector and the many partners and supporters of Maynooth University to build on the University’s impressive achievements gained under the leadership of Professor Nolan and previous Presidents.

outside of the walls of the University. President Leinonen has a wealth of international experience that will be of huge benefit to the Chamber and all stakeholders in the county and the region. I believe that we are very fortunate to have her here in Kildare and whilst she has big shoes to fill, I have no doubt that we will all benefit from her tenure in Maynooth.

Takeaway Whilst the new President is only in the job a short few weeks, what struck me straight away was that Eeva wants to engage, listen and get involved in what is happening

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ISSUE 4 - November 2021

Allan Shine 10 YEARS AT THE HELM

Allan Shine, CEO of the Chamber is this year celebrating 10 years at the helm of what is now one of Irelands leading business organisations.

The Chamber, the voice of business in Kildare, represents over 400 businesses in the region who in turn employ 38,000 people. It’s a far cry from when Allan was appointed CEO back in 2011, the organisation at the time was transitioning from what was Naas Chamber to North Kildare Chamber. It wasn’t until 2017 that County Kildare Chamber was formed creating a unified voice for business in the county.

Allan says the work of the board of North Kildare Chamber at the time worked tirelessly to create the unified business representative body. “The President at the time Vivian Cummins put in huge work to make that happen. Vivian nearly put his own business to the side to ensure we got it right. Before Vivian, we were very fortunate to have Niall Browne at the helm who started the move to creating a county wide organisation”.

Over the past 10 years the Chamber has undergone huge transformational change from being a small networking 20

group to a full-time lobbying force that has the respect of all key stakeholders in the region.

Allan Shine’s leadership has successfully guided the organisation through tough economic climate cycles, has positioned the Chamber as a champion of innovation, entrepreneurship and business.

Luke Hanahoe, the current Chamber President, cites Allan’s careful guidance as a transformative force that led to the Chamber’s growth beyond a small-town business group into the respected voice of business it is today, with influence far beyond its borders. “Allan’s ability to navigate the political landscape has been invaluable,” added Luke. “There isn’t a person in leadership or influence that Allan doesn’t know. He is a 24/7 leader that is passionate beyond belief in ensuring that business succeeds in Kildare,” he said.

ISSUE 4 - November 2021

The Chamber CEO says that his goals change yearly with the Chamber as the uniqueness about the job is that the organisation must change with business needs and demands.

It needs to be ahead of the curve in how it supports the membership, providing unparalleled workshops, networking events and other services that cater to the needs of the membership base.

The Co Kildare Chamber’s CEO said “We are very fortunate to be guided by a different vision from each President elected in recent years. Niall Browne led the charge for the Chamber developing the Chamber Innovation Hub which now is home to 13 HPSU’s. Vivian Cummins focus and determination helped deliver a County Kildare Chamber for the county. Maureen Bergin brought an international focus to the Chamber and

we began delivering an annual trade visit to Boston and hosted a unique Ambassadors Luncheon to Kildare with 34 Ambassadors attending. Luke Hanahoe, our current President is leading our Policy and Sustainability programmes and has presided with ease over the complexity business face with Brexit and of course Covid 19.”

The Chamber’s membership now stands at 400 plus businesses. What we do differently and better than most business organisations is that we engage with our membership constantly. We understand the needs of our members. We lobby effectively and constantly deliver for our members. Our membership is extremely active and engaged which results in the majority doing business with each other which is hugely satisfying.

Our positioning as the largest business voice for business in the mid-east region of Ireland is proving very successful. The Chamber is represented on 17 external boards and committees locally, nationally and now internationally.

Our focus and agenda are becoming more policy focused in recent years.

Championing for Kildare last year during local lockdowns, ensuring businesses secured the support they required and now promoting Kildare as the sustainable county and leading the charge in promoting and educating businesses on the “Green Agenda” has resulted in the Chamber deciding to recruit a full-time Public Affairs Manger. This new position will allow the Chamber to support businesses going into 2022 and beyond and will position the Chamber further as the voice for business in the region.

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Leading the business community in Kildare is no easy job. The CEO engages with businesses daily from across all sectors, sole traders to SME’s to MNC’s where one call could be with IDA discussing FDI opportunities and the next could be a call looking for an introduction from a small business seeking to do business with another. Preparing a policy submission for Government can be interrupted by a business seeking information on a lunch that the Chamber is hosting the following week.

The uniqueness of Kildare is that we are home to businesses across all sectors, an unrivalled eco system of high potential start-ups, well established large indigenous SME’s and Multinationals that make us the envy of neighbouring counties.

Allan Shine said “Networking is key for small business and we are, I believe, leaders in the region of what we provide businesses. Weekly network mornings are always very well attended. I remember back 10 years ago we had weekly network mornings in Maynooth and Naas and also fortnightly in Athy. That really helped to get our name and offering out there. Luckily, I have a very able and capable person in Jennifer Forster, our Marketing & Communications Manager, who helps guide what we provide for our members. Jennifer is with the Chamber for 6 years and we are all very fortunate to have a person that is highly dedicated in supporting our membership.”

Relationships are key in the Chamber. The Chamber enjoys an excellent relationship with our local authority and that’s not to mean we do not and won’t challenge them. However, it’s 22

an open-door relationship and we work closely together to ensure businesses can succeed in the county. The same goes with government parties and state bodies. For example in August of last year the Chamber was out there on a daily basis challenging policy makers when Kildare was forced to shut down during the pandemic. Kildare, Laois and Offaly bore the brunt of decisions by Government that meant our members had in many cases close up shop for over 3 weeks.

Key highlights over the years were the creation of County Kildare Chamber, developing and commencing an international trade programme for members, cementing Kildare as the key location in the region for FDI and ensuring that the voice of business in Kildare is respected and listened to.

ISSUE 4 - November 2021

Getting to know your CEO 1.

Tell us something we don’t know…

I’m married to my beautiful wife Sinead for the past 6 years. I have 4 children, the latest, Lucia arrived this month so it’s a busy house.

We live in Straffan – I’m originally from Clane and Sinead is from Newcastle in Dublin so we’re close by to both our families which is great.

2.

What’s your favourite thing to do in your spare time?

My spare time only happens after 8pm when the kids are in bed, but getting out for a game of golf and/or a few pints is heaven! I consume news on an hourly basis so switching off is hard, but lunch or a dinner date with Sinead is quality time.

3.

What is your fondest childhood memory?

Watching Man Utd in Old Trafford with my Dad.

4.

Tell us your favourite home cooked meal

Anything Sinead makes is top class. She loves cooking so that’s one less job for me!

5.

Barry’s or Lyons?

Neither, I’m a coffee man! So, coffee from Urban Kitchen in Naas or Shoda in Maynooth 23

Chamber New Members Adare Human Resource Management

Blue Sky The Project Management Experts

As the Strategic HR Partners of County Kildare Chamber and one of Ireland’s Ireland’s leading HR, Employment Law and Health & Safety consultancies we support organisations of all sizes and sectors working closely with every client to design tailored solutions to meet their needs. Under the HR Partnership Programme, members can access HR & Employment Law Supports to enable Chamber members maintain their HR compliance and benefit from support when its needed most.

Real world Project Management training programmes to improve performance, confidence, satisfaction, team dynamics & productivity (CPD); Consulting services – facilitating workshops & coaching; Managing projects. We make project management more accessible, relevant, positive, interesting and fun. Email info@blueskytraining.ie or call Máire Kearns at +353 86 3718920.

Browne and Co Mediation have offices in beside the court house in Naas, Co Kildare. We aim to help you resolve workplace, commercial and family disputes in a timely and cost effective manner. Mediation offers the parties involved the opportunity to decide terms of their agreement with the assistance of a professional Mediator.

www.adarehrm.ie

www.blueskytraining.ie

www.browneandcomediation.ie

KC Security Locksmiths

Larkfield Pellet Products

Nearly Sisters

Kc Security Locksmiths are a newly established company. Based in Naas ,our director Karl Carey has over 15 years experience in the locksmith and security industry throughout Ireland and Europe. We have both the drive and ambition to become the leading locksmith in the county of Kildare in years to come

Larkfield Pellet Products was established in 2017

by Peter McGlynn and his son Peter McGlynn Jr. We make truly sustainable environmentally friendly products with a fraction of the carbon miles of any other cat litter on the market – all at a competitive price. Our vision is to help the environment as much as possible.

NearlySisters Ltd is a corporate and personal gifting company founded by sisters-in-law Nic and Sue. Championing Irish makers, crafters and businesses we help companies create and strengthen long-standing relationships through thoughtful considered gifting. Choose from pre curated or bespoke bundles wrapped in sustainable packaging, we will include your message then ship directly to the giftee.

www.kcsecurity.ie

www.larkfieldpelletproducts.ie

www.nearlysisters.ie

Browne and Co Mediation

Otals

People First Credit Union

Otals is a two-sided marketplace platform to book services online, where service providers can list their services and availability and customers can book any time and pay online. Service providers can reduce no-shows and operational costs along with better business management tools like online payment and customers can gain back time and flexibility.

People First Credit Union operates from four branches located in Athy, Abbeyleix Portlaoise and Stradbally. We have 44 staff members and almost 40,000 members. We offer a range of financial products and services including – SBCI, SME, Agri Loans, Mortgages, and financial services

www.otals.com

www.peoplefirstcu.ie

Precision Coatings

Resolute Advisory

Southern Machinery Ltd

Precision Coatings offer a powder coating service to consumers and various industries, including pharmaceutical and construction.

Our coatings are applied electrostatically. We use advanced technologies, ensuring a long lasting, durable and protective finish. We look forward to hearing from you.

Resolute Advisory is a leading insolvency, financial advisory and forensics firm, providing a principal-led service to stakeholders in troubled businesses. From complex corporate challenges involving multiple stakeholders to SME challenges, we are always trusted by our clients to deliver successful outcomes skilfully and efficiently. We will provide the best results-orientated service to suit clients’ needs.

Southern Machinery Ltd is the UK and Ireland Distributor for Hustler Zero Turn Lawnmowers. We supply approximately 100 dealers and retail outlets throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland We also retail Lawnmowers and Gardening equipment including Honda and Husqvarna in Kildare and surrounding counties providing after sales service on all products which we sell.

www.precisioncoatings.ie

www.resoluteadvisory.ie

www.southernmachinery.ie

The Westgrove Hotel

Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort

TW Performance Solutions Ltd.

Modern and elegant, the 4-star Westgrove Hotel, located in the charming village of Clane, boasting 96 well-appointed bedroom, suites and apartment. A choice of conference and event space for all meeting and events. A truly memorable and award-winning wedding venue in Leinster with full Leisure Club & Spa.

Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort is a luxury 4 star retreat situated in West Wicklow. Comprising of 89 bedrooms, 4 self-catering lodges, 18th Century Manor House & extensive facilities for both corporate & leisure events all surrounded by our spectacular 18 hole championship golf course. Tulfarris is yours to enjoy.

TWPS works with companies to deliver successful business change, through their people. In this ever- evolving world, leaders are continuously reevaluating how their teams produce their work.

TWPS helps companies find more efficient ways of working, improve engagement and morale and enhance communication through coaching and development of the people on the ground as they deliver the desired end result.

www.westgrovehotel.com

www.tulfarrishotel.com

www.twsolutions.ie

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ISSUE 4 - November 2021

County Kildare Chamber Membership 2021

A

Accountancy & Tax Services

Grant Thornton KPMG Brennan & O’Reilly Accountants Conway, Conway & Co HTH Accountants Integra Accounting & Outsourcing Limited John P Greely & Company Kealy Mehigan Accountants Kildare Audit & Accountancy Services Mark Graham & Co. OKellySutton Chartered Accountants O’Neill & Brennan Quinlan and Co Accountants Resolute Advisory S. C. Dunne & Co Taxkey The Leinster Partnership Wallace O’Donoghue

Agri Tech

Terra Nutritech

Agriculture

Conrow Ltd Robinson Farms

C

Car/ Van Hire/ Lease/ Sales Sheehy Motor Group Go Rentals Joe Mallon Motors Toyota Naas

Catering Supplier

Catering 365 Catering Innovation Agency Ltd

Charity

Barretstown KARE

Cleaning and Hygiene Provider

Caterclean Ecokem Premiere Catering and Hygiene Products

Cold Storage Solutions

Dawsongroup TCS Ireland Ltd

Conference and Accommodation Maynooth Campus Conference & Accommodation

Construction

Demesne Architects Vivian Cummins Architects

Ballymore Group Boston Access Limited Crylock Developments Ltd Glenveagh Homes Homes By Design Mick O’Shea Heating & Plumbing Ltd Quattuor Ventures Ltd Tradecraft Building Products Ltd

Arts/ Theatre/ Cinema

Consultancy

Air Conditioning Crystal Air

Architecture

Odeon Cinema Moat Theatre Riverbank Arts Centre

B

Bank

AIB Bank of Ireland KBC Bank Ireland Permanent TSB

Bookkeeping

Premier Accounts Assist Ltd PrepareMyBooks

Amberley & Associates Apex Evolution Auxilia Consultants Bruce McCormack Consulting CiviQ Complinet Enable Me Coaching En-Route Consulting Eolas Managed Solutions Ltd Galileo Energy Services JAH - Business Operations Specialist Jigsaw Better Business Organic Trust CLG Paul Murtagh Business Consulting Platform Energy Solutions Ltd. SAR Consultancy Sontai Data Solutions Spotlight Investigation Limited TIO Consulting TW Performance Solutions Ltd Vulcan Consulting Ltd

Copy Writer Rafferty Writes

Corporate Branding CarveOn Limited Magma Design

Corporate Gifts Balloon HQ NearlySisters Ltd

Credit Union

Croi Laighean Credit Union Life Credit Union People First Credit Union

CRM Systems Provider Cloudtech Monread CRM Team Project

D

Distillery

Powerscourt Distillery Limited

E

E Commerce

Covaworld ModusLink Otals Pangea Media Ltd

Education

KWETB Maynooth University Faculty of Capacity Development Junior Einsteins Kildare Leah Moran Stage School and Productions LTD Leinster Senior College

Electrical Services

Schneider Electric Ireland Netherbrook Ltd RGN Electrical & Communications Specialist

Engineering

Endress+Hauser Powercomm Engineering LTD

Enterprise Park

Millennium Park Clane Project Centre Ladytown Business Park

25

ISSUE 4 - November 2021

E

Equine

Godolphin Ireland Irish Equine Centre BBA Ireland Ltd Centrepiece Rosettes Horse Racing Ireland Irish National Stud & Gardens

Equipment Supplier/ Hire Haven Hire Hireco Trailer Rentals/Sales Loading and Lifting Solutions Pumpwatch Southern Machinery Ltd Superior Pipeline Products Ltd The Buggyman Ltd

Estate Agents

Brophy Farrell Real Estate Alliance Coonan Property Jordan Auctioneers O’Neill & Co Remax Partners ¦ Bryan Little Remax Platinum Sherry Fitzgerald Brady O’Flaherty Sherry Fitzgerald O’Reilly - Naas

Events

52nd Street Band/ John Forde Piano Man All Events Audiovisual Exhibition and Conference Services Follow Fox Events (VEMS) Mondello Park Mongey Communications Pop Up Races Ltd

F

Facilities Management

Advanced Workplace Solutions Elite Maintenance

Finance

Acorn Life Bibby Financial Services Close Brothers Commercial Finance Grenke Tameric Investments

Financial Advice House of Finance Lifegoals Financial

Financial Services

Brink’s Cash Services (Ireland) Ltd FACE Credit Consultacy Finance Ireland Leasing Traction Finance Verity Financial Consultants Ltd

Fitness

Infinity Hot Yoga Ltd K Leisure

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Food & Beverage

33 South Main Street American Fruits and Flavors Ireland DAC Bergin Family Butchers Coghlans Artisan Bakery Ely Wine Store Firecastle Indie Spice Grill Kavanagh’s Bar Lemongrass Lock 13 Brewpub Urban Kitchen Wine Lab

Food Producer

O’Brien Fine Foods Queally Group

Funeral Directors

Murphy Brothers Funeral Directors Oliver Reilly Funeral Directors

G

Gambling/ Bookmaking Lottoland Services Ltd

Garden/ Outdoor Area Supplier Sanctuary Synthetics

Gas Networks

Gas Networks Ireland

Government Agency

Eirgrid Plc IDA Ireland LEO Kildare Cill Dara Le Gaeilge Local Employment Service Network

Graphic Design

Ian Fleming Design

H

Health & Safety

Dulann Kildare NOVID SeaChange Ltd Simplicity Technology Ltd. Zehnacker Ireland Healthcare Ltd

Healthcare

UPMC Kildare Hospital Care at Home Services Ltd. Elm Hall Nursing Home Homecare Solutions

Home/ Office Interiors

Gannon Office Solutions Wall to Workstations Alena C Design T&I Fitouts Ltd Vyvyan Byrne Interior Design Wildthings Interiors

Hospitality

Palmerstown House Estate & Golf Club

Hotel

Osprey Hotel The K Club The Westgrove Hotel Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel Clanard Court Hotel Cliff at Lyons Court Yard Hotel Glenroyal Hotel & Leisure Club Kilkea Castle Killashee Hotel Maudlins House Hotel Moyvalley Hotel & Golf Resort The Johnstown Estate Hotel The Keadeen Hotel

Human Resources

Adare Human Resource Management Curran HR Consultancy Ltd Kala Management Solutions Limited MHR Global Peninsula Albatel Ltd

I

Information Technology

Intel Kendlebell Naas Hereworks Technology Limited INIT iPing IT Services ITM LeaconBI Plimso Software Limited VEI Global Zinon IT Solutions

Inspection and Verification SGS Ireland Limited

Insurance

Arachas Corporate Insurance Brokers J F Dunne Insurances Dooley Insurances Murray Spelman Insurance & Finance

L

Locksmith

KC Security Locksmiths

Logistics

AMC Removals Elsatrans Ltd

ISSUE 4 - November 2021

M

Maintenance

Action Chimney Escalator and Lift Services

Manufacturing

Property Management

HouseLet Property Management Naas Property Management

Public Relations

Big Picture Communications Leo Nulty Promotions

Quantity Surveyor

Marketing

Racecourse

Elevate Marketing Salt Marketing Vine Digital Ireland whathappensnext

Mediation

Browne and Co Mediation

Medical

Blackberry Hearing International Medical Information Limited Magnet Medical Solutions

Mortgage Provider

EBS - Drumcondra Gerry Cuffe Financial Services Ltd

O

Office Space Provider Business Barn

Office Supplies

Egan Office Supplies

Opticians

Crowleys Opticians

P

Pharmaceutical Pfizer

Photography/ Videography Frame It Productions Annalee Delaney Photography Celtic Photography Green Road Media & Film Media Milk Tadhg Nathan Photography Tony Gavin Photography

Print Solutions

EMS Copiers Managed Print Solutions Character Print Solutions Printscan Support Services Ltd Punctual Print

Product Sourcing Made Personal Sweetspot Sourcing

Kildare GAA Millicent Members Golf Club Naas Driving Range

StartUp Support MERITS

Lambert Surveyors Limited

R

Steel Stockholders RFL Steel

T

Punchestown Racecourse The Curragh Racecourse Naas Racecourse

Taste and Nutrition Solutions Kerry

Telecomms

Recruitment Services

Clark Recruitment Flexsource Solutions/ CPL ISS Recruitment Leinster Appointments Specialists Noel Group Osborne Recruitment Sparktel Teamworx

Hanahoe & Hanahoe Solicitors Moloney & Co. Solicitors Osbornes Solicitors Patrick J Farrell and Company Solicitors Stephen Walsh & Co. Solicitors Blasco Solicitors and Notary Public

Sport

Q

Etex Group MGS MFG Group Ash Technologies Atlantic Bitumen Labplan Lanogreen Minch Malt Profile Systems Rampower Ventac and Company Limited

Solicitors

LogMeIn Ireland Ltd

National Broadband Ireland Ltd (Deployment)

Recruitment

Removals

Oman-BeverlySmyth

Renewable Energy Green Generation Ltd

Retail

Aldi Colourtrend Kildare Village Newbridge Silverware Cross Retail Group Dalys Pharmacy Glam Doll Johnstown Garden Centre Larkfield Pellet Products Monread Fare (Lidon Group) Powell Precision Coatings SCÓN Vodafone

S

Security/ Security Systems

Tourism

Bargetrip Ltd Celtic Horizon Tours Fairways and FunDays

Training/ Coaching/ Mentoring

Acornstar Ltd ActionCOACH Blue Sky Training Cenit Group Choice Training & Consultancy Essential Health and Safety Training and Consultancy Ltd Ladybird Driving School Rugby Academy Ireland Soft Skill Success

Travel Agency Freedom Travel

V

Vehicle Maintenance N7 Tyres Naas

Voluntary group Naas Tidy Town

W

Warehouse Solutions Jungheinrich

LiCrann CCTV Processing and Redaction Manguard Plus Safewatch Security Systems

Water Testing

Signage Provider

ADOS Design Excytech Fusion Marketing Graphedia

Element Creative

Solicitors

Coonan Cawley Solicitors Coonan Morgan Solicitors

The Waterlab

Web Design

Wellness

TherapyXperts

27

ISSUE 4 - November 2021

Chamber Weekly Networking Mornings | Testimonials Niall Reck - GRAPHEDIA.COM As chair of the weekly Chamber networking webinars, I find it a great boost to the business week, listening to other companies’ successes is very rewarding and inspiring. The meetings have a great energy and members are very entertaining. As Robert Kiyosaki said “The richest people in the world look for and build networks, everyone else looks for work.”

I would encourage any business looking to create contacts in Kildare to come along weekly, you are very welcome to join us.

Annalee Delaney - ANNALEE DELANEY PHOTOGRAPHY I joined the Kildare Chamber in February of this year and cannot recommend it enough. As a new business starting out it can be very isolating working for yourself. The Chamber provides a support network of similar minded business people whom you can ask for advice. The meetings provide weekly motivation, accountability and it starts your working day on a high. Every member whom I’ve spoken to has provided me with a reservoir of experience and advice that I have found invaluable for my business.

Tim Pullen - CLOUDTECH Cloudtech has found enormous benefit from attending the weekly business development meetings organised by County Kildare Chamber. Not only do we get to promote our own CRM business, but we contribute to the success of other Kildare businesses. The Chamber organises many events (business & social), connects companies and lobbies on our behalf – things we couldn’t do by ourselves. The 1:2:1’s that happen as a result of the Chamber are a key part of our sales process – it’s like having an extended sales team!

Maureen McCowen - SOFT SKILL SUCCESS I have been a member of Kildare Chamber since setting up my business in 2019, and am a regular attendee at the weekly networking events. The supportive nature of the network has always been important for me, especially since Covid, when meetings have moved online. The networking meetings are a great way to keep in touch with what is happening with businesses in the county.

Members get the opportunity to promote their business during their 60 second pitch and can avail of a 10-minute presentation slot. Support, fun and networking on a Wednesday morning- a great midweek lift!

Ross Hamilton - KENDLEBELL NAAS I started with Kendlebell Naas in April; Kildare Chamber’s Weekly Zoom Meeting was the first group meeting I attended. The meetings are well attended and informative, and perhaps more importantly high energy and interactive. The quality of attendee is also high calibre, my fellow attendees are very well connected, generous, interesting and interested people. The guests I have brought have given me only explicitly positive feedback. I genuinely come out of every meeting having made a learning or developing a new connection, always feeling energised. If you are interested in advancing yourself or your business, County Kildare Chamber should be your first stop.

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ISSUE 4 - November 2021 We are a multi-award-winning practice which was established by Eilis Quinlan in 1992, the company has since expanded and is located in Naas Co. Kildare.

We are a fully digitalised practice, offering you the complete range of bookkeeping, payroll, accounts preparation and audit services. This means that you are able to access your accurate and up-to date financial information at your fingertips, any time and any place that you need it. Sitting on a train, or in the bank, or just late at night when you can’t sleep!

From our experience operating in your local market, we understand the challenges you face. And because we are a part of your community, we are hugely committed to providing exceptional service to all our customers no matter how big or small.

As part of Europe, we can offer cross border and intra-EU community VAT, payroll and EORI services arising as part of Brexit and the ever-changing EU landscape.

Quinlan & Co. are a member of an International Accountancy and Business Consultancy network of accountants, which ensures that we can provide specialised tax and accounting advice in other legal jurisdictions besides Ireland, such as the US, Asia and Australia. This ensures that as your business expands and enters new markets, our capabilities and the supports we can offer you will match and enhance your growth.

Most of all, we are on your side! Your success is our success! We are grateful to you for your business!

FINALLY: Never forget

“It’s not how much you make that really matters, it’s how much of it you KEEP!”

29

be superlative superlative websites, logos, apps & video

Make sales while you sleep!

Tel: 045 579608

Email: info@graphedia.ie Sallins Road, Naas, Co Kildare

www.graphedia.ie