Wheely Green: Limerick company Like Bikes rolls into sustainability spotlight with award

The Abbeyfeale-based company Like Bikes is celebrating after it was presented with a Green/Sustainability award at the National Enterprise Awards, County final.

Backed by the Local Enterprise Office Limerick, the award was presented at a ceremony in the Engine, Cecil Street Limerick.

Like Bikes participated in the Green for Business & Energy Efficiency supports from LEO Limerick, which has helped them reduce waste and energy consumption whilst at the same time driving down costs.

The National Enterprise Awards are organised by Ireland's network of Local Enterprise Offices to give recognition to the contribution of micro enterprises to the National Economy.

The story of Like Bikes

Like Bikes was formed in 2020 in response to the challenges brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. With their team-building activities at Recalibration Limited on hold due to travel restrictions, they saw an opportunity to repurpose their existing fleet of bikes.

Recognising the growing demand for outdoor, healthy activities, they expanded rapidly into bike hire to offer locals and tourists a safe and sustainable way to enjoy exploration, wellness and nature into the future. They are now one of the key bike rental operators on the Limerick and north Kerry Greenways.

The cycling story is led by founders Andy Smith and Diana Thornton. From Jersey and Ireland respectively, both Andy and Diana are qualified in Business and Management and hold extensive experience in these sectors in private as well as public bodies.

Andy also brings his Finance, Administration and Planning skills to the business while Diana oversees People Management, Health and Safety and Operations.

Like Bikes’ sustainable initiatives include sustainable lifestyle services, eco–friendly mobility solutions and green tourism and education. Our school Cycle Right Training programme Stages 1, 2, and 3 are designed to equip students with essential cycling skills and road safety awareness, fostering a new generation of safe and self-assured cyclists.

“We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the joy and freedom of cycling. Our programmes are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, providing tailored training that aligns with the national Cycle Right Standards. We are proud to be one of the few bike hire providers in our region offering a comprehensive mobility fleet," said Andy.

"The selection includes adaptive bicycles designed to support various physical requirements, ensuring
that everyone can find a suitable option,” he added.

Green journey

Sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint of the enterprise, is at the very heart of Like Bikes Business model.

Green projects they have engaged in include, insulating the roof with 300mm of recycled insulation, fitting LED lighting and sensors throughout the building, and switching the heating and hot water systems from kerosene oil to electric. They have fitted photovoltaic panels to generate clean energy which in turn recharges their e-bike batteries and finally, triple glazing will be fitted to their Abbeyfeale premises later in 2025.

Andy says he's confident that these upgrades will reduce operating costs as well as the company's carbon footprint, whilst caring for the planet.

"Additionally, our bike rentals are a great example of Green Tourism and our bike recycling scheme is a clear example
of how a business can participate and thrive in the circular economy. At Like Bikes, we’re proud to be forerunners in bike recycling in Ireland. Extending the product life cycle, we are passionate about recycling and upcycling bicycles! We also renew, upcycle and reuse cycling equipment and accessories," added.

In accepting the award, Andy commented: "We wish to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated team, amazing
customers, supportive community, SEAI and the Local Enterprise Office Limerick for believing in our vision. Together, we are pedalling towards a more sustainable future.”

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