Thirty-nine of Waterford’s top businesses will be honored this Friday evening, February 28th, in the Tower Hotel at the sixth annual Waterford Business Awards.
Of the 39 finalists, there will be 13 category winners, who will then go head to head in the hope of claiming the Overall Waterford Business of the Year, sponsored by Waterford City & County Council, which will be announced and presented by Mayor of the City & County of Waterford, Cllr John Pratt.
This year there will also be an Ambassador of the Year Award, which will be presented by EirGen Pharma, for the person’s tremendous contribution to the cultural and economic climate of Waterford and for inspiring others through their exceptional commitment, motivation, and vision.
Speaking about the awards, Waterford Chamber President Jonathan Earl said, “The Waterford Business Awards is one of the most important events on our calendar as it is a showcase for the outstanding achievements by our business community. It is a fantastic opportunity for people to come together and celebrate their successes throughout the year. All 39 businesses should be exceptionally proud of what they have achieved.”
Who will take home the title of Overall Waterford Business of the Year on Friday night? Pictured are last year’s winners Sanofi. Photo: Patrick Browne
WLR work in partnership with Waterford Chamber and Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber, on the awards. Managing Director of WLR Des Whelan said: “It is very important that we recognize enterprise and hard work in business across all of Waterford City & County. There is an excellent cross section of enterprising people and companies represented in the shortlist, which only highlights the fact that Waterford is a great place to do business.”
The shortlisted businesses were nominated by the public and also through self-nomination for the twelve categories. An independent judging panel, chaired by Frank O’Regan and including David Breen, David M. Breen & Co; Irial Mac Murchu, Nemeton TV; Lena Murphy, WLR & Beat 102 103; Louise Grubb, Q1 Scientific; Tina Darrer, Dooley’s Hotel, TV Honan, Spraoi; Noel Kelly, ILSS and Richie Walsh, Waterford Local Enterprise Office, decided upon the finalist shortlist after a rigorous judging analysis of each application.
