The Laois Business Awards 2025, hosted by Laois Chamber Alliance in partnership with Laois County Council, returned in spectacular style on Friday night in the Heritage Hotel in Killenard.
Over 300 guests attended an event that was a celebration of local business, MC’d by the redoubtable Ivan Yates, a former Government minister, broadcaster, bookie and currently co-host of one of the top podcasts in the country alongside Matt Cooper.
The night honoured the extraordinary achievements of Laois businesses, from local start-ups to global innovator, while shining a spotlight on the people and partnerships that make this county such a special place to live, work, and do business.
Described as the “highlight of the Laois business calendar,” the event recognised 14 outstanding businesses and individuals across a wide range of categories.
The 2025 awards received over 260 nominations, reflecting the depth and vibrancy of Laois’s growing business community.
The Business of the Year was won by the Portarlington-based Polar Ice Ltd – a company that specialises in the production and distribution of dry ice – with owner Alison Ritchie accepting the award.
Business person of the year was won by Cian Prendergast, founder of IT company Ortus, which has recently been acquired by ECKO.
2025 Winners:
- Outstanding SME of the Year (sponsored by PTSB): O’Mahony Safety Solutions
- Outstanding Large Business (sponsored by Mulhall’s SuperValu): Midland Steel
- Start-Up/Emerging Business (sponsored by Local Enterprise Office Laois): Angelina George Skincare
- Business Supporting Community (sponsored by Leprino Foods): People First Credit Union
- Excellence in Tourism & Hospitality (sponsored by Fáilte Ireland): Ballyfin Demesne
- Excellence in Innovation (sponsored by Martleys): CJ Sheeran
- Excellence in Retail (sponsored by Ballyfin Demesne): Nook and Cranny Lifestyle Store
- Best Marketing & Communications (sponsored by Telford’s): Glamping Under the Stars
- Excellence in Sustainability & Climate Action (sponsored by LOETB): Finline Furniture
- Excellence in Food & Drink (sponsored by EKCO): Temptation Chocolates
- Laois Rising Star (sponsored by O’Gorman’s): Alison O’Kelly, AOK Mentoring
- Spirit of Laois Award (sponsored by Finline Furniture): Peter Naughton
- Businessperson of the Year (sponsored by VIMAR): Cian Prendergast, EKCO
- Laois Business of the Year (sponsored by Bank of Ireland): Polar Ice Ltd
Jackie Carroll, CEO of Laois Chamber Alliance, said: “This year’s finalists and winners reflect the energy, heart, and innovation of Laois.
“These businesses don’t just generate employment — they build communities, create change, and give back.
“That spirit was felt in every conversation tonight. Laois is stronger when we are together.”
Fiona Hyland, President of Laois Chamber Alliance, extended a heartfelt thanks to everyone who was a part of a very special night for Laois last night. She reiterated that Laois Chamber Alliance vision is to create a stronger Laois through working together.
The evening also featured unforgettable entertainment from James O’Connor, Joe the Magician, The Vows, and Secret Secreto, setting the tone for a night of connection, fun, and celebration.
“Sincere thanks go to: Laois County Council for their partnership on the event; Main sponsors – Enva, AIB, The Heritage Hotel, and Sound to Light; Gold and silver category sponsors, including PTSB, Leprino Foods, Ballyfin Demesne, EKCO, Failte Ireland, VIMAR, Penhouse Design, O Gorman’s Bar and Restaurant, Bank of Ireland, Mulhall’s SuperValu, Local Enterprise Office Laois, Martleys, Telford’s, LOETB, Finline Furniture; Judges – Tommy Hogan, Dr. Donagh Davern, Carole Green, and Kieran Comerford; Photographer – Joe Conroy; Award designers – Eugene & Gertie McEvoy; The Heritage Hotel team – Adam Fitzpatrick, Sinead Byrne, Paula Lawler, GM Helen Skehil and all the team on the night; Laois Chamber Alliance team – Joann Nolan, Valerie O’Connell, Gillian Reidy, the Laois Chamber Board, and all volunteers.”
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