A record crowd attended the Louth Business Awards organised by Dundalk Chamber of Commerce in the Fairways Hotel on Saturday 17 October.
The Louth Business Awards is the premier business awards for the North East region. With over 23 categories, Dundalk Chamber saw a record number of applications in 2026 as its membership and services continue to grow.
Speaking after the successful awards night, Chamber President Hanna McDonnell said: “The Louth Business Awards is a fantastic evening that is focused on celebrating our businesses, their achievements, and everything good that Dundalk has to offer.
“We were absolutely overwhelmed with the huge amount of applications and the high standard that was set by all, which naturally made the decision-making process extremely tight for our judges.
“With over 450 people in attendance and a record number of applications, our 2026 Awards are a real testament to the strength and depth of our Chamber membership.”
Protection & Prosperity Financial Services sponsored the Lifetime Achievement Award, and the 2026 winner was Frank Lynch from Frank Lynch & Company.
It was a fitting tribute to Frank’s outstanding business and sporting achievements that his Lifetime Achievement Award was presented by Paddy Keenan, Louth GAA All Star, as well as Principal and Senior Financial Consultant at Dundalk Chamber’s corporate sponsor, PPFS.
The Award was presented to Frank in recognition of his contribution to the Dundalk Business community since the 1960s. Frank outlined how he established his accountancy business in the 1960s and built it up over the decades to the successful practice it is today.
Being a former 1957 All-Ireland Winner, Frank also outlined his views on the success of Louth GAA and the huge benefit the new stadium will have for Dundalk.
Aidan Callan of Dundalk Skillnet said: “As the premier sponsor, we’re proud to celebrate businesses that turn ideas into impact.
“Our Skillnet has invested over €3 million in skills development since inception, supporting over 4,000 learners from more than 800 companies across Dundalk and County Louth. It is wonderful to see that many of those companies are finalists and winners across the categories.”
Dundalk Chamber CEO John McGahon said: “The last 12 months in Dundalk Chamber have seen several successful wins for our Chamber.
“Several of our recommendations in our Pre-Budget submission were implemented by Government in Budget 2027. The move to our brand-new premises on Clanbrassil Street and a substantial increase in our membership all set the tone for a successful 2027.
“We have really embarked on a reforming agenda here in the Chamber. We are introducing a range of corporate governance improvements, setting firm foundations, and expanding our membership and services that will ensure the Chamber will continue to be the premier business organisation in the region and the champion of Dundalk business.”
13. Best Established Micro Small Business sponsored by AIB - Stephen Hoey AIB with winners Katie Sheehy and Olivia Sands of Irish Whiskey Auctions, Aidan Callan Premier Sponsor Dundalk Skillnet and Hanna McDonnell Dundalk Chamber
Supplied
14. Best Licensed Premises sponsored by Diageo - Hanna McDonnell Dundalk Chamber, Gavin McEneaney Diageo, winners Andrea Flynn, Izabela Misiewicz and Alan Branigan Ballymascanlon Hotel and Aidan Callan Dundalk Skillnet
Supplied
15. Best Personal Services sponsored by L’Oreal winners Hestia Design - Rachael O'Hanrahan, Joanne Lavelle Dundalk Chamber and Sarah Kerley
Supplied
16. Best Professional Services Category sponsored by MVI Cleaning Ltd. - Keith Agnew, MVI Cleaning Ltd with winner Sylwia Willis UHY Farrelly Dawe White Ltd., Aidan Callan Premier Sponsor Dundalk Skillnet and John McGahon Dundalk Chamber CEO
Supplied