Manorhamilton's Ronan Haslette named Leitrim Entrepreneur of the Year 2023

Manorhamilton's Ronan Haslette has been named AIBF Leitrim Entrepreneur of the Year 2023 by the All-Ireland Business Foundation. Ronan is the MD of both Merenda Ltd and ManorHUB.

Merenda Ltd. specialises in high-quality wood veneer component products, employing 18 at their Manorhamilton base and exporting to clients worldwide. 

Founded in 1984 by Ronan's parents, Ronan has been involved in the business since 2003, taking over as MD in 2008.

Ronan also set up ManorHUB in 2014, an executive workspace for the community of rural professionals in North Leitrim and surrounding counties, and he has continued to develop it into the elite business facility it is today.

The award comes from the AIBF (All-Ireland Business Foundation), an autonomous national accreditation body tasked with enterprise development and recognises exceptional entrepreneurs who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation, and success in their respective industries.

Ronan reacted to the award, saying: "I am absolutely thrilled to be accredited as AIBF Leitrim Entrepreneur of the Year 2023. This is a prestigious external quality mark which highlights our sustained commitment in the areas of trust, performance and customer-centricity."

Ronan Haslette, MD of Merenda Ltd., with the company's recently awarded prestigious Business All-Star Accreditation

AIBF also recognised Merenda Ltd with their prestigious Business All-Star Accreditation, awarded to companies that have demonstrated exceptional performance in customer service, innovation, community engagement, and workplace culture. 

To achieve this status, companies must first undergo a rigorous evaluation process, and the title is a badge of honour that showcases a company's dedication to excellence and continuous improvement.

On announcing the awards, AIBF Board Member Kieran F. Ring congratulated Ronan: "This prestigious recognition is a testament to your exceptional leadership and the remarkable impact of Merenda Ltd in the field of wood veneer component products for furniture manufacturers worldwide.

"Merenda Ltd.'s almost 40-year journey as a family business showcases the enduring dedication and expertise you have brought to the industry.

"In addition, your initiative in establishing ManorHUB as an executive workspace for rural professionals further showcases your entrepreneurial spirit. 

"This endeavour exemplifies your vision to create opportunities and support the professional community in North Leitrim, North Sligo, South Donegal, North West Cavan, and West Fermanagh.

Your passion for excellence, integrity, and community development has not gone unnoticed, and we commend your commitment to making a positive impact in both the business and social spheres", Kieran said.