Three popular Laois shops take home awards

Gala stores in Portlaoise, Portarlington and Killenard were recognised at event

Four stores from Laois have been awarded the Gala Award for excellence in retail at the 2024 Gala Annual Awards. CONTINUE READING BELOW PHOTO

Ben McGinn and David O'Brien from Gala Retail with Denise Smith and Emma Hynan from Bracken's Gala, Portlaoise.

The awards evening took place at Lawlor’s of Naas and was hosted by sports broadcaster and chat show host, Jacqui Hurley. The event marked a celebration for the Gala Retail Group, highlighting the achievements of the 200+ Gala Stores all over Ireland. CONTINUE READING BELOW PHOTO

Ben McGinn and David O'Brien from Gala Retail with Leona McCarthy from Dempsey's Gala, Portarlington.

Presented to stores that are deemed ‘outstanding’ following a comprehensive and independent assessment process, the Gala Excellence Awards recognise quality in retailing.

The Laois stores that received the Gala Excellence Awards at the event were Dowling's Gala, Killenard; Dempsey's Gala, Portarlington, Bracken's Gala, Portlaoise and Simpson's Gala, Stradbally.

David O'Brien and Ben McGinn from Gala Retail with Colm Dowling from Dowling's Gala, Killenard.

Speaking at the awards dinner, Gary Desmond, CEO of Gala Retail, congratulated the winning stores: “This year’s Gala Excellence Awards are a true testament to the dedication and commitment that our retailers bring to their communities. As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, it's an especially poignant moment to recognise the outstanding efforts of our Gala stores across County Laois, who have gone above and beyond in delivering quality and service to their customers.

"These awards not only honour the exceptional standards these stores maintain daily but also highlight the incredible journey Gala Retail has undertaken over the past 25 years. We are proud to have grown into a network of over 200 stores across Ireland, and we wish them continued success in the coming year and look forward to celebrating their future accomplishments.’’