Photos By Jenny Callanan
Network Ireland Louth hosted another well attended and informative members’ event at the Monasterboice Inn as part of its February programme. The workshop focused on Lean and Six Sigma and was delivered by Annmarie McHugh of Dundalk Institute of Technology.
An audience poll at the beginning of the session showed that more than 80 per cent of attendees had little or no previous knowledge of Lean or Six Sigma. Annmarie introduced the five core principles of Lean and explained how they can be applied within small and growing businesses. She outlined how Lean practices can deliver measurable financial efficiencies and productivity gains when properly implemented and monitored, with a focus on creating greater customer value while using fewer resources.
The session also explored Six Sigma, a data driven methodology used to identify defects, improve processes and increase customer satisfaction. Members were introduced to the DMAIC framework and learned how structured problem solving can support consistent quality and long term business improvement.
Gráinne McKeown from Local Enterprise Office Louth attended the event and outlined the Lean for Business programme currently available to local enterprises, encouraging members to consider availing of the support.
A follow up poll at the end of the evening showed a significant increase in participants’ understanding of Lean and Six Sigma. President of Network Ireland Louth, Pauline Clarke, said members left with practical and actionable steps they could immediately apply in their own businesses, reflecting the organisation’s commitment to supporting women in business through education and collaboration.
The next Network Ireland Louth event will take place on 5 March 2026 at the Gateway Hotel in Dundalk. The event, entitled From Start Up to Scale Up, will celebrate International Women’s Day and women in business at every stage of their journey. It is a collaboration between Local Enterprise Office Louth and Network Ireland Louth, with bookings available through www.localenterprise.ie/louth.
Network Ireland is a national organisation supporting the professional and personal development of women in business, with over 1,200 members nationwide. New members are always welcome, whether established in business or at the beginning of their entrepreneurial journey. Further information is available at www.networkireland.ie.
