Laois Business Awards celebrates the energy, heart, and innovation of Laois

Over 300 guests attended the Laois Business Awards in Portlaoise last weekend. 

Hosted by Laois Chamber Alliance in partnership with Laois County Council, the Laois Business Awards 2025 returned in spectacular style at the beautiful Heritage Hotel, for an evening filled with pride, inspiration, and celebration on Friday, May 9.

With Ivan Yates as master of ceremonies, the event 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.

Known 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.

CEO of Laois Chamber Alliance, Jackie Carroll, praised the entries in this year’s event. 

“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.”

President of Laois Chamber Alliance, Fiona Hyland, extended a heartfelt thanks to everyone who was a part of a very special night for Laois. She said Laois Chamber Alliance’s 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.

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

Organisers offered their sincere thanks go to  Laois County Council for their partnership on the event and to the 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.

The judges on the night were: Tommy Hogan, Dr Donagh Davern, Carole Green, and Kieran Comerford. The Photographer was Joe Conroy. The  Award designers were: Eugene and Gertie McEvoy

Thanks were also extended to the Heritage Hotel team: Adam Fitzpatrick, Sinead Byrne, Paula Lawler, GM Helen Skehil and all the team on the night. The Laois Chamber Alliance team are: Joann Nolan, Valerie O’Connell, Gillian Reidy, the Laois Chamber Board, and all volunteers.