The 2023 Drogheda and District Chamber Northeast Business Excellence Awards, which were launched yesterday at The Highlanes Gallery, will emphasise the importance of customer care.

“These awards are the highlight of the business year and it's where commerce celebrates commerce” said Chamber President Hubert Murphy said at the launch.

“Drogheda needs events like this to recognise hard work, endeavour and bravery when it comes to running a business.

“We are truly blessed to have a world class offering of entrepreneurs, small business, large business, and international bodies operating out of Drogheda. These awards are a level playing field and we'll have winners across the spectrum”.

John Rooney, MD of Flogas, spoke about the great links the company has with the town where it all began, and they were delighted to be back as the premier sponsor for 2023.

AIB is the sponsor of the trophies which are once again designed by  local artist Deirdre McCullough.

Prospective entrants are being encouraged to attend an online briefing at 9.15am on June 29^th, 2023, which will provide guidance and tips on how to submit an entry with the best chance of success.

The winners will be announced at a gala dinner which will take place on November 25^th, at the CityNorth Hotel and is expected to attract over 300 attendees.

The awards are open to all businesses in the region and there are fifteen categories, each being sponsored by a local business. The event categories and sponsors are:

Categories for public vote and their sponsors 

• Best Hair Salon - M1 Drogheda Chamber Skillnet
• Best Beauty Salon - Drogheda & District Chamber
• Best Coffee Shop/Café - CityNorth Hotel
• Best Pub - AWS
• Best Restaurant - Tirlán
• Customer Service - Indaver
• High Street Hero – Best Small Retailer Permanent TSB

Categories requiring an interview and their sponsors 

• Solopreneur - Hanley Energy
• SME (2-10)   - Osborne
• SME 11+   - Irish Cement
• Family Business of the Year - Paycheck Plus by Iris
• Best Not for Profit - Coca-Cola Drogheda
• Emerging New Business (Start-Up) - Local Enterprise Office Louth
• Tourism Business of the Year - Louth County Council
• Environmental Biodiversity - Boann Distillery

There will also be a special Outstanding Achievement in Business Award sponsored by premier sponsor Flogas. For more information, or to submit an entry, see: https://businessexcellenceawards.ie/