Finalists for Chamber’s business excellence awards announced

Ennis Chamber has announced the finalists in this year’s FBD Clare Business Excellence Awards 2011.

The three finalists in each of the nine categories were selected by Spotcheck, an independent firm of consultants who sifted through close to 90 entries in a thorough evaluation process that included in some categories mystery shopping of the businesses.
Ide O’Keefe, area manager with FBD Insurance, the main sponsors of the awards, said, “FBD are committed to excellence in business and we are delighted to continue to acknowledge and reward progressive businesses for their dedication, vision and contribution to Clare.
“The quality and number of applicants to these awards demonstrated a real appetite from businesses to get involved and promote their enterprises. FBD are delighted to partner with Ennis Chamber for this initiative again in 2011.”
John Dillane, president of the chamber, added, “We were really encouraged by the response from the Clare business community in terms of the calibre and level of interest in these awards. Last year’s ceremony proved such a success due to the positive atmosphere that emulated from the night. This is a real opportunity to showcase the excellence that exists across the county in businesses at the top of their game. We look forward to another great night and we would encourage any business to attend as a way to network and experience first-hand the possibilities that exist for business in County Clare.”
The FBD Clare Business Excellence awards ceremony will take place on Friday, September 30 in the Auburn Lodge Hotel, Gort Road, Ennis and will combine with the Ennis Chamber President’s Dinner for 2011. In the weeks leading up to finale night when the winners will be announced, the finalists will be have short film clips recorded for showcasing at the awards ceremony.
Anyone interested in learning about positive business stories in County Clare are welcome to attend. Tickets are available from Ennis Chamber.

FBD Clare Business Excellence Awards 2011 finalists
Best Place to Eat in Clare Award sponsored by Value Centre BWG Foodservice
Il Pomadoro at Bunratty Hotel
Rowan Tree Café Bar, Ennis
The Pantry Restaurant/Deli/Bakery, Kilkee

Clare Retailer of the Year sponsored by Retail Excellence Ireland
FSG Fireplace Stove Gas, Ennis
Giftvenue- Ennis
Rochford’s Pharmacy, Ennis

Clare Customer Service Excellence Award sponsored by Energia
Aveda CSPA Hair and Beauty, Ennis
Carey Corbett, Rosleven Shopping Centre
Doolin Caves

Best Tourism Hospitality in Clare Award sponsored by Shannon Development
Clare Celtic Tradition, Tulla
Imecofarm, Clarecastle
Inchiquin House, Corofin

Clare Innovation in Business Award sponsored by Microsemi
Enspire Renewable Technologies, Whitegate
IT Providers, Ennis
Rochford’s Pharmacy, Ennis

Clare Professional Services Excellence Award ­sponsored by Clare County Enterprise Board
Clare FM
Hassett Considine Sol, Ennis
Hawthorn Nursuries and Land, Cree, Kilrush

Best Place to Work in Clare Award sponsored by Ulster Bank
Armada Hotel, Spanish Point
Crotty’s Pub, Killrush
Zimmer Orthopedics Manufacturing Ltd, Shannon

Best use of Information Communication Technology sponsored by Clare County Council / Ennis Town Council
Acton BV, Ennis
Enspire Renewable Technologies, Whitegate
IT Providers, Ennis

Clare Award for Excellence in Industry and ­Manufacturing sponsored by AIB
Clare Spring Water Ltd, Lissycasey
Organic Lens, Ennis
Zimmer Orthopedics Manufacturing Ltd, Shannon.