A Recipe for Enterprise: Celebrating Helen Gee and G’s Gourmet Jams

As we mark National Women’s Enterprise Day 2026, we’re celebrating the women turning ideas, passion and hard work into successful businesses – and Helen Gee of G’s Gourmet Jams is a wonderful example of what can be achieved through determination, family and a passion for quality.

Based on the family farm in Abbeyleix, Co. Laois, Helen has spent almost 30 years building G’s Gourmet Jams into an award-winning food business.

Today, the company produces more than 40 varieties of jams, marmalades, chutneys and relishes, with products enjoyed across Ireland and in international markets including the USA and Luxembourg.

For Helen, however, one of the most rewarding parts of the journey has been watching the business become a true family enterprise. Her daughter Sandra has worked alongside her for more than 15 years, becoming an important part of the business and helping to shape its future.

Helen is incredibly proud of the strong woman Sandra has become within G’s Gourmet Jams. Having her daughter by her side, sharing in something the family has built together, means so much to Helen – particularly as Sandra helps carry that legacy forward for the next generation.

It is a story that perfectly reflects the spirit of National Women’s Enterprise Day: women creating opportunities, building successful businesses and inspiring the women who come after them.

For Helen, enterprise is not simply about growing a business; it is about creating something meaningful that can be shared, developed and carried forward as a family.

Helen’s hard work has earned plenty of recognition, including being a three-time accredited Business All-Star and Food Entrepreneur of the Year 2025.

There has been more to celebrate in 2026, with G’s Gourmet Blackcurrant Jam winning Gold and Gráinne’s Gooseberry Conserve receiving Bronze at the Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards.

From a family farm in Abbeyleix to an award-winning food brand, Helen’s journey is one of determination, creativity and staying true to quality – while creating a business that gives the next generation a place at the table too.

Want to try G’s for yourself? Explore the full range of jams, marmalades, chutneys and relishes at www.gsgourmetjams.ie.

The Perfect Way to Try G’s Award-Winning Blackcurrant Jam

Looking for a delicious way to enjoy G’s Gold Award-winning Blackcurrant Jam? These light and fluffy Blackcurrant Swirl Muffins are an easy treat, with a gorgeous ripple of jam running through every bite.

Makes 12

Ingredients:

• 2 eggs
• 125ml vegetable oil
• 250ml milk
• 250g caster sugar
• 400g self-raising flour
• 1 tsp salt
• ¾ jar G’s Gourmet Blackcurrant Jam, plus extra to serve.

Method:

• Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / Gas 6 and line a 12-hole muffin tin
• Whisk eggs, oil and milk, then stir in sugar
• Add flour and salt and mix until just combined
• Divide batter between two bowls and fold the jam through one
• Alternate spoonfuls of each mixture into the cases and swirl with a toothpick
• Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden
• Cool for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack
• Serve warm or at room temperature with extra jam.

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