Mayo Business Award winners 2024 are announced
Special recognition accolade for family-run building firm
The winners in the 2024 Mayo Business Awards have been announced.
The ceremony, hosted by Castlebar Chamber of Commerce, took place in Breaffy House Hotel and Resort.
Anne Conlon, president, said the event involved some of the most dynamic and passionate business owners in the county.
"We celebrate the strength, resilience and vision that each the finalists have displayed in abundance.
"In times of challenge and change, it’s business people who remind us of the incredible potential we have in Mayo," she stated.
Ms. Conlon said she is proud to lead the Castlebar Chamber.
She elaborated: "We are a town that doesn’t stand still. One can be educated from primary school to third level in the county town.
"We are proud to have large multinationals as well as a significant number of well-established, family-owned, home-grown, and medium and smaller-sized industries.
"These organisations bring and support economic activity in the region, directly employing people and supporting spin-off industries.
"Castlebar is well known for its entrepreneurial focus, with an innovation hub operating from the Mayo campus of the ATU.
"We are working closely with Castlebar Municipal District on a broad range of projects.
"We appreciate the collaboration and the work done in conjunction with the head of the district David Mellett and his team."
Ms. Conlon said every nominated business, no matter the size or sector, plays a role in driving growth and making Mayo a place we are proud to call home.
"As business owners, we are shaping the future of this county and Chambers are here to support your journey, bringing together as a united voice and creating pathways to success for all.
"Whether through our resources or partnerships, we are committed to helping you achieve your ambitions, strengthening the backbone of our local economy, and inspiring a culture of innovation that will keep Mayo thriving for generations to come.
"Chambers, in general, and Castlebar Chamber, in particular, share a vision for the future of businesses in our town.
"Together, we are building a stronger economy that benefits us all.
"By supporting your local chamber, you’re investing in your business and a vibrant future for our entire community.
"Together, let’s keep building, keep innovating, and keep inspiring one another. Here’s to a bright future for Mayo’s business supported with your local chamber."
The Castlebar Chamber presented a special recognition award to Seamus O'Brien & Sons Builders.
Ms. Conlon outlined: "This award honours the dedication, innovation, and resilience of local businesses that drive economic growth, create jobs and contribute to the vibrant culture of Castlebar and the wider Mayo area.
"Seamus began his journey in 1972 with a dream, his two hands and a strong woman, Chris, beside him.
"With a steadfast commitment to quality and integrity, he laid the first brick of a business that, over the decades, has grown and thrived.
"His company started as a one-man enterprise but Seamus's dedication has expanded it into a true family business, with three of his sons joining him on this journey.
"Together, they have delivered countless residential and commercial developments, leaving a mark on the landscape of Mayo and a lasting impact on our communities."
FULL LIST OF AWARD WINNERS
Castlebar Chamber Special Recognition Award: Seamus O’Brien & Sons Builders
Accessibility and Inclusion Award: The Wild West, Westport
Excellence and Customer Service Award: Broadhaven Bay Hotel, Belmullet
Best Digital Presence Award: Joseph Murphy Ballina Ltd
Emerging Business/Best Start-Up Award: La Casa Tapas and Wine, Claremorris
Resilience and Innovation Award: Fort Wayne Metals Castlebar
Sustainability Initiative Award: PEL Waste Reduction Equipment, Ballindine.
Responsible Tourism Award: Blacksod Sea Safari.
The Neill O' Neill Lifetime Achievement Award: Intersport Elverys, Castlebar.