Achievements of Limerick businesses to be recognised at gala ceremony

BUSINESS leaders from across Limerick city and county will descend on the Strand Hotel this Friday night for one of the biggest dates in the local economy’s calendar.

Around 400 people are due to attend the 12th annual Limerick Chamber Regional Business Awards, of which the Limerick Leader is once again a media partner.

Doubling up as Chamber president Miriam O'Connor’s annual dinner, the event will see business people and community groups across the region honoured for the contribution they have made.

Some 22 companies, groups and charities are in the running to pick up one of eight Limerick Chamber Regional Business Awards.

Chamber president Miriam O’Connor described the black-tie evening as “a celebration of achievements within the regional business community throughout the year and the work being undertaken by Limerick Chamber to support member’s ambitions.”

As well as eight awards being given out - plus the top award of company of the year - Ms O'Connor will also present a special award, chosen by herself and kept under wraps until the night itself.

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She described the award as “honouring a person who embodies the spirit of the business community and who has had a significant impact on Limerick the Mid-West. “

Ms O’Connor added: “Traditionally the identity of the president’s award recipient remains top secret until the reveal on-stage, however I can say that this year’s honouree is highly accomplished, recognised nationally for their leadership ability, incredibly passionate about the team they lead and has had a tremendous impact on the entire Mid-West.”

The president’s dinner is sponsored by AIB.

The firm’s regional head of business banking Damien Garrihy said: “AIB is proud to be small to medium sized enterprise partner for Limerick Chamber and partner with the team to bring forward high-value events for businesses throughout the year, none more highly anticipated than the president’s dinner.”

The keynote sponsor of the awards element of the evening is Technological University of the Shannon.

Its president, Professor Vincent Cunnane said: “We are excited to partner with Limerick Chamber for the 12th year to bring together the region's business leaders, innovators, and change makers for a night of celebration and recognition. The Regional Business Awards highlight the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit and ability of the companies within the Mid-West.”