The finalists in the inaugural Laois Business Awards have been announced – with 28 nomineees from around the county shortlisted across nine different categories.
There were a total of 87 applications and the winners will be announced at a gala evening in the Portlaoise Heritage Hotel on Friday, April 28.
Three businesses are finalists in two categories – Breslin’s Supervalu in Rathdowney, G’s Gourmet Jam and Laois Sawmills Ltd.
Laois woman Louise Phelan, who is global vice-president of Paypal, is one of the judges and RTE’s Marty Whelan will be the MC.
Tickets are €40 and there will be a drinks reception followed by a four-course meal. ‘The Lols’ will provide the entertainment on the night.
The finalists are:
TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY AWARD
Coolanowle Country House and Organic Farm
Bob’s Bar, Durrow
Tynan’s Restaurant @ The Storeyard
RETAIL EXCELLENCE AWARD
Fisherman’s Thatched Inn
Breslin’s Supervalu, Rathdowney
Heidi Higgins
AGRI BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
Stradbally Farm Services
Dunmasc Genetics
Coolanowle Organics Ltd
INNOVATION IN BUSINESS
CycLok Ltd
Midland Steel Supplies Ltd
Irish Polymer Extrusions Ltd
EXPORTER OF THE YEAR
Laois Sawmills Ltd
Midland Steel Supplies Ltd
Walker Recycling Services Ltd
E-Commerce Award
Kelly Lou Cakes
TheCostumeShop.ie
Wall Stickers for Kids Ltd
ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD
Groundforce
Killeen Civil Engineering
CJ Sheeran Ltd
SME Business of the Year Award
Laois Sawmills Ltd
G’s Gourmet Jam
Aidan O’Connell and Associates Ltd
ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
Aubren Ltd
Ortus Managed IT & Cloud
Breslin’s Supervalu, Rathdowney
G’s Gourmet Jam
