InBUSINESS Editors Choice 2014 by Ashville Media Group

10th December 2014 Hibernian Club, Stephenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Green

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elcome to the third InBUSINESS Editor’s Choice Awards in association with Chambers Ireland. As Ireland’s premier business quarterly publication, InBUSINESS reports comprehensively on the world of Irish business, focusing exclusively on the activities of Irish companies, or companies based here. As the editor of InBUSINESS – as you can probably imagine – I get to speak to a lot of business people. And it has been really striking how much more upbeat they have become over the past 12 months. It’s great to be back writing about more and more companies expanding both in terms of sales, and increasingly, people, and hopefully this is a good sign for 2015 and beyond. These awards recognise and honour exceptional business achievement and innovation in Irish business and have been selected on the broad criteria of growth, profile of business, range of services and customer care. With the awards made up of 27 categories, today provides us with a unique opportunity to gather together representatives from a wide variety of business sectors; some familiar faces along with some new ones. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the companies represented here today. I would also like to thank Chambers Ireland for their input into the magazine and their ongoing commitment to supporting the Irish business community. 2014 has been a positive year for Irish business. Let’s make 2015 an even better one. I wish you an enjoyable afternoon. Joseph O’Connor Business Editor, Ashville Media Group

List of Winners

Simple Solutions at the Core: CoreHR

The Swift Approach to Treatment: VHI Swiftcare

Creating An Impact: Deloitte

11 Investing in the Future: Zurich Life 13 A Stronger Proposition Since Independence: Shannon Airport 15 Finding the Right Solution: eircom Business Solutions 17 Achieving Locally and Globally: Eversheds 19 A Welcome Investment in the Wild West: Fáilte Ireland 21 From Strength to Strength: GloHealth 23 A Major Feat in Marketing: Electric Ireland 25 Success Through Perseverance: Boehringer Ingelheim 27 Banking Made Mobile: AIB 29 Flying High: DHL Express 31 An Ideal Choice for Fleet Drivers: Ford 33 The Astounding A6: Audi 35 Committed to the Customer: Marks and Spencer 37 Helping Businesses Boost Their Green Credentials: Energia 39 Quality, Simplified: Zurich General Insurance Ireland 41 Getting Down to Business: Dublin Business School 43 Striving For Excellence: PayPal 45 Continuing to Connect Ireland with the World: Aer Lingus 47 A Brand Built on the Customers’ Needs: Applegreen 49 Stimulating Growth Both Sides of the Border: InterTradeIreland 50 Building on a Special Partnership: eircom 53 A New Way of Doing Business: Ronan Foley, IPB Insurance 55 The Dairy Chief with Ambition: Siobhán Talbot, Glanbia 56 A Firm with a Solid Foundation: CRH

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EST IN FINANCIAL SOFTWARE B CoreHR – CorePay

XECUTIVE CAR OF THE YEAR E Audi A6

EST PRIVATE HEALTHCARE FACILITY B VHI Swiftcare

EST IN RETAIL EXCELLENCE B Marks and Spencer

ACCOUNTANCY FIRM OF THE YEAR Deloitte

EST IN GREEN ENERGY B Energia

EST LIFE ASSURANCE COMPANY B Zurich Life

EST IN FINANCIAL SERVICES B Zurich General Insurance Ireland

EST NEWCOMER B Shannon Airport

EST BUSINESS SCHOOL B Dublin Business School

BEST ICT SERVICE PROVIDER eircom Business Solutions

EST IN E-COMMERCE B PayPal

USINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR B Eversheds

USINESS AIRLINE OF THE YEAR B Aer Lingus

EST TOURIST ATTRACTION B Fáilte Ireland – The Wild Atlantic Way

EST BRAND B Applegreen

EST PRIVATE HEALTH INSURER B GloHealth

EST SUPPORT TO SMES B InterTradeIreland

EST MARKETING INITIATIVE B Electric Ireland – #ThisIsMajor

PECIAL MERIT AWARD S eircom – Partnership with Special Olympics Ireland

EST IN PHARMA B Boehringer Ingelheim EST FINANCIAL APP B AIB – Me2U EST IN INTERNATIONAL LOGISTICS B DHL Express

USINESSMAN OF THE YEAR B Ronan Foley, IPB Insurance USINESSWOMAN OF THE YEAR B Siobhán Talbot, Glanbia OMPANY OF THE YEAR C CRH

F LEET CAR OF THE YEAR Ford Mondeo

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CoreHR

ASSESS YOUR TALENT POOL FORECAST RECRUITMENT NEEDS AND RUN PAYROLL – ALL FROM ONE POWERFUL HR SOLUTION. ANYTIME, ANYWHERE, ANY DEVICE.

CoreHR provides cloud based HR & Payroll solutions to world class organisations. To find out how we could help you email sales@corehr.com or call +353 (0)21 494 7400

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corehr.com www.corehr.com

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BEST FINANCE SOFTWARE COREHR – COREPAY

SIMPLE SOLUTIONS AT THE CORE CoreHR’s payroll software, CorePay is an ideal solution for any organisation that needs an accurate, easy to use and secure payroll. InBUSINESS spoke with John Goulding, Chief Operating Officer, about the product. Q: Can you tell me about your products CorePay and CoreHR? A: CorePay can be

implemented as a standalone payroll system or as part of CoreHR, our fully integrated enterprise HR system. The full CoreHR system manages the person in the organisation, offering everything from online recruitment to talent management, expense management, time and attendance, people management, payroll budgeting and pension management. So, essentially we manage all HR processes from hiring to retiring. The system is used by organisations to manage anything from 500 people to 100,000 people. The full CoreHR solution enables selfservice, devolved processes, powerful HR and finance analytics with powerful mobile capability – all on a high-performance cloudbased platform. Q: How has the product developed since its initial inception? A: CorePay was first built

and released more than 20 years ago. A lot has changed over the years in terms of technology and client requirements and

we’ve been really good at not only keeping pace with that change, but actually staying ahead of it. Our clients have played a huge part in this, with their requirements driving the solution as much as any technology advancements or legislative requirements. The result is a complete cloud-based enterprise HR and payroll solution that is all about delivering business benefit, while at the same time remaining legislatively compliant and at the cutting edge technologically. Q: What kind of companies are using the product? A: Our client profile

includes some of the most recognised global brands across different industries. In the education sector, for example, Oxford University use the complete payroll and HR suite from CoreHR. In the Irish education sector, every university and institute uses CoreHR. In retail, we have organisations such as Primark using our products. Additionally, every Government department in Ireland uses CorePay. Q: What would you say sets CorePay apart from other payroll solution products in the market? A: The reason so many

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organisations opt for CorePay is based on a few key elements: reputation and trust is a huge factor. We’re very proud of the fact that CorePay has such a fantastic reputation in the marketplace for ensuring accuracy, availability, compliance and reliability and this, like our clients’ complete trust, is something that has been well-earned. Furthermore, the CorePay and CoreHR product is extremely powerful and feature-rich and this allows our clients to cater for their critical business requirements regardless of how complex they might be. Add to this, our intuitive self-service offerings, mobile functionality and management analytics that facilitate the devolvement of key HR processes to managers and employees, and the result is a total solution that really sets us apart. Finally, I firmly believe our people are a key differentiator for CoreHR and their passion and drive ensures that we stay ahead of the competition and continue to offer the best product in the marketplace. Q: Any major plans/news for CoreHR in 2015? A: We’re really excited

John Goulding, Chief Operating Officer, CoreHR

about 2015. The past few years have seen incredible growth, and the phenomenal response we’re currently getting in the marketplace to our latest CoreHR v20 release would indicate that this growth isn’t going to slow down any time soon. Q: Your response to being chosen as Best Financial Software in the InBUSINESS Editor’s Choice Awards? A: We’re delighted to

receive the award. In a competitive market we’ve always recognised that you must have the best product and there’s an obsessive commitment to that in CoreHR. At a time when we’re growing rapidly and doing really well outside of Ireland, it’s always extra special to be recognised at home.

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BEST PRIVATE HEALTHCARE FACILITY VHI SWIFTCARE

The Swift Approach TO TREATMENT Vhi SwiftCare have been named winner of Best Private Healthcare Facility at this year’s InBUSINESS Editor’s Choice Awards. We spoke to Dr Brian Gaffney, Medical Director, Vhi SwiftCare Clinics, about delivering high-quality healthcare and treatment to patients, 365 days of the year. Q: Could you tell me how long the Vhi SwiftCare Clinics have been running? A: The first Vhi SwiftCare

Clinic opened in Balally in November 2005. We currently have three Vhi SwiftCare Clinics - two in Dublin (Balally and Swords) and one in Cork.

Q: Who can use your service? A: The Vhi SwiftCare

Clinics can be visited by all members of the public, not just Vhi Healthcare members, and are open 365 days a year from 8am to 10pm.

Q: What are the main objectives of the clinics and what kind of injuries and illness do you treat? A: Vhi SwiftCare

Q: What would you say makes your service exceptional compared with other private healthcare facilities? A: When the Vhi SwiftCare

Clinics are Ireland’s first walk-in, urgent care clinics, providing rapid assessment, treatment and advice for patients with a range of minor injuries and illnesses. Conditions that can be treated in the Vhi SwiftCare Clinics include: respiratory and other illnesses, suspected and actual bone fractures, ligament or soft tissue sprains, bumps and bruises, minor burns or cuts that may need a stitch.

Clinics first opened, they were the first of their kind and the key element they offered to patients was choice, as prior to 2005 anyone suffering from a minor injury or illness only had the option to visit their GP or their local accident and emergency department. The Vhi SwiftCare Clinics aim to see and treat most patients within one hour (although first and foremost our focus is on providing high-

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quality healthcare and treatment). We offer a reduced consultation fee for patients who have been referred to us by their GP. Vhi SwiftCare Clinics have revamped their website which now displays real-time information on the waiting periods in each of the clinics. This facility means that even the busiest patient can choose the time they visit the Vhi SwiftCare Clinics and ensure they minimise the disruption to their day. Q: Any major challenges faced by Vhi SwiftCare and how are they overcome? A: Since we opened the

first Vhi SwiftCare Clinic in November 2005, we have implemented the highest standards and our focus is on improving our service and ensuring quality in all that we do. To this end, we applied for and achieved renewed Accreditation/ ISO certification by CHKS earlier this year. The Clinics were first accredited in 2010 and achieved 100 per cent compliance in all categories in the latest accreditation process. This recognises the quality of our care and our organisation’s policies and processes. Patients are at the centre of what we do -

each member of our team is focused on delivering the best care possible to every patient who visits us, 365 days of the year. Q: Any plans to expand your services further and establish clinics in other parts of the country? A: We are always open

to the idea of expansion and identifying ways we can improve and enhance the services we offer. This is reflected in the introduction of appointment-led services in some of the clinics for minor surgical procedures, paediatric consultations, physiotherapy and dental care. These have been warmly received by patients. Q: Your response to winning Best Private Healthcare Facility at the 2014 InBUSINESS Editor’s Choice Awards? A: We are delighted to

win this prestigious award and are very proud of this achievement. To have our clinics recognised in this way is an honour and we feel such an award could not have been won without the commitment and dedication of the entire Vhi SwiftCare Clinics team.

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Powered by new thinking As a global leader in professional services, we help our clients succeed through world-class consulting, financial advisory, tax, legal, enterprise risk and audit solutions. Access a world of insight. For further information please contact: Dublin: +353 1 417 2200 Cork: +353 21 490 7000 Limerick: +353 61 435500 www.deloitte.com/ie

ÂŠ 2014 Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited

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ACCOUNTANCY FIRM OF THE YEAR DELOITTE

CREATING AN IMPACT With an emphasis on people and culture, Deloitte remains committed to working with its clients to drive success, as Managing Partner Brendan Jennings explains. Q: Could you give me some background on Deloitte’s presence in Ireland? A: Deloitte is a leader

in professional services worldwide and with nearly 2,000 people in Ireland. We provide consulting, financial advisory, tax, legal, enterprise risk and audit services to our public and private clients spanning key Irish industries. With a globally connected network of member firms in more than 150 countries, Deloitte brings world-class capabilities and highquality services to clients, delivering the insights they need to address their most complex business challenges. Q: What make up Deloitte Ireland’s key business areas? A: Solving complex

problems is our passion. We have built our business to effect change that matters, to have transformational

impact for clients and the communities in which we work. Deloitte’s multidisciplinary portfolio – consulting, financial advisory, tax, legal, enterprise risk services, and audit – enable us, as professionals, to deliver deep functional and industry capability across a broad spectrum of services. Q: How would you describe the current state of the audit industry in Ireland? A: To thrive in the current

environment, firms must continually build and strengthen their client relationships and innovate and develop their service offerings to meet the consistently changing nature of our clients’ businesses. Those firms that position themselves as the ‘go to firm’ in the market for their services and build their reputation for helping businesses

tackle the challenges they face, will position themselves for strong and consistent growth over the next five years. Q: How has 2014 been for Deloitte Ireland and what is your outlook for 2015? A: We expect all elements of

our practice to grow in the coming year. However, in today’s world of exponential change driven by new technologies, shifting demographics, and rapidly evolving market needs, innovation is increasingly recognised as an imperative. Our clients expect such innovation in services to support them through change in their businesses. Consequently, advisory services are likely to see the most significant growth. It is for that very reason that we have invested in our business to ensure that we are best placed to meet those changing needs and support growth within our business. Q: You recently announced the creation of 638 new positions across the island of Ireland. How important are people and culture at Deloitte? A: At Deloitte, our people

Brendan Jennings, Managing Partner, Deloitte

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are our business. They are our best asset – after all, it’s their expertise and time that ensures the continued

success of our business. And so the talent agenda is incredibly important to us. We invest heavily in career development programmes that help our people achieve their career goals and to develop leaders at all levels within our organisation. The firm is consistently recognised locally and internationally as a leading place to develop a career. Aligned with the importance that we place on our people is our belief that the culture of our organisation is fundamental, not only in shaping how we work with our clients, but also to the overall success of our business. We work with our clients, not just for them, in helping them meet their objectives. This culture of collaboration is something we believe makes us unique and distinctly Deloitte. Q: Your response to winning Accountancy Firm of the Year at the 2014 InBUSINESS Editor’s Choice Awards? A: We are delighted to

be recognised with this award. We are proud of the business that we have developed here in Ireland, and this is a reflection of, and testament to, our vibrant and dynamic people and the work that they do every day.

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With a Zurich pension, your future starts now. We make planning for your retirement easier, with a wide range of pensions and helpful online tools.

Talk to your Financial Broker or visit zurichlife.ie today.

Zurich Life Assurance plc is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. InBusiness Magazine a4 AD 1114.indd 234027_1C_Zurich_CMD_CIB.indd 1 1

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BEST LIFE ASSURANCE COMPANY ZURICH LIFE

INVESTING

IN THE FUTURE In a milestone year for Zurich Life, InBUSINESS speaks to CEO Anthony Brennan who provides a positive outlook on the future of the life and pensions industry in Ireland and Zurich’s place within that. Q: What have been Zurich Life’s key strengths this year? A: Firstly, on behalf of

everyone in Zurich Life I am delighted to receive the ‘Best Life Assurance Company’ award and to hear that Zurich General Insurance has succeeded us as Best in Financial Services. Our award recognises our key strengths - a focus on delivering for our customers and a strong product range that meets their pensions, investments and protection needs, supported by marketleading online systems that we continually enhance.

This November was the 25th anniversary of our actively managed fund range, a key milestone. Investors in these funds have done exceptionally well since their launch, which shows the importance of strong and consistent active management – our core investment belief and a key strength at Zurich. Q: What are the main challenges facing the life and pensions market? A: There are several

challenges. By international standards, the percentage of people with a private pension in Ireland is very low. Many traditional DB pension schemes are struggling to remain solvent, with schemes increasingly closing to new entrants as a result. As DC schemes become the norm, we have the expertise to help companies avail of this option. Anthony Brennan, CEO, Zurich Life The InBUSINESS | Editor’s Choice Awards 2014

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Government Pension Levy has impacted people’s pensions and confidence in investing. The recent budget reduced this levy, which is a positive step. It is expected that the levy will be abolished in 2016. Consumer confidence, which had been severely hit with austerity budgets taking their toll, is now returning and we’ve seen consumers taking steps to plan for their future, whether through savings and investments, pensions or putting in place valuable life or serious illness cover – so this is a good development for the market overall. Customers expect financial information to be readily available online, so we’ve met this challenge by greatly enhancing our online platform, building a user-friendly risk profiler and portfolio builder. Q: With many people in Ireland relying on the State pension, how is Zurich helping to increase awareness of the importance of pensions? A: Our ‘Dear 30 Year

Old Me’ advertising campaign encourages people to start planning for their retirement now, so that later on, they do not regret putting in

place adequate pension funding. The concept won numerous marketing and advertising awards, but most importantly, financial advisors tell us it helped them start discussions with customers in a fresh way about pensions planning. Q: What do you think is the outlook for the life and pensions market in Ireland? A: I’m very positive on

the future of the life and pensions market in Ireland. With the economy now making strides towards growth and more people taking up employment, customers should hopefully have more disposable income available to invest and plan for their future. With very low interest rates on offer from banks, people are looking at ways of getting a better return for their savings and investments. Our actively managed Pathway Funds took in a quarter of a billion euro investments in just eleven months. So, this is a very positive sign that customers and their financial advisors are looking to our industry to offer strong alternatives that are appropriate to individuals’ risk profiles and offer real potential for long-term growth.

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Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss a minute of America Now that you can avail of Full US Preclearance at Shannon Airport, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no need to waste precious American time in a queue when you land. Just pick up your luggage and walk out the door to the time of your life. Avail of US preclearance at Shannon with Aer Lingus to Boston and New York, Delta to New York, United to Chicago and Newark and American Airlines to Philadelphia.

shannonairport.ie

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BEST NEWCOMER SHANNON AIRPORT

A Stronger Proposition SINCE INDEPENDENCE Shannon Airport was separated from the DAA at the beginning of 2013 and reported a profit in its first year as an independent entity. Since then, the airport has placed itself at the heart of the community in the region. InBUSINESS caught up with Neil Pakey, CEO of Shannon Airport and the newly formed Shannon Group plc. Q: Shannon Airport celebrated its independence on January 1st 2013. How has the airport fared since then? A: We aim to ensure each

of our business units are successful, capturing the innovative spirit that Shannon is renowned for across the world – the spirit behind the invention of Shannon Free Zone, Duty Free and aircraft leasing. In our first year, we halted five years of successive decline at Shannon Airport and are in positive growth mode. Shannon is the only airport on the Atlantic seaboard serving all three key international markets – the US, UK and Europe and we have seen significant growth in these crucial

leisure and business markets since 2013. Between January and the end of October 2014, when compared with the same period last year, we experienced a 63 per cent increase in passengers using the airport’s European services, a 10 per cent increase in transatlantic passengers, with UK passenger numbers growing by 5 per cent. Q: Shannon Group plc was formally established on September 5th 2014. Tell us about its main objectives. A: The Shannon Group plc

is a commercial semi-state company with a significant role in stimulating growth across the wider region. It comprises four strategic business units: Shannon Airport, Shannon Heritage, Shannon Commercial Enterprises Limited, trading as Shannon Commercial Properties, and the International Aviation Services Centre (IASC). The Group has a wide footprint, with Shannon Neil Pakey, CEO of Shannon Airport and Shannon Group plc Airport serving a InBUSINESS | Editor’s Choice Awards 2014

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region that stretches from Cork right up to the North West, and in that regard has both regional and national significance.

airlines are responding by putting more flights and destinations on sale, and so the cycle hopefully continues into next year.

Q: You became CEO of Shannon Airport in June 2013 and subsequently CEO of Shannon Group. What have been some highlights since then? A: Crucially, we achieved

Q: Looking ahead to 2015, would you be expecting similar positive growth? A: This is an exciting new

what we set out to do, namely getting the airport back on a growth trajectory and turning in more positive financial results. The recognition we have achieved from our customers and peers has been satisfying. Across the Group, four internationally recognised awards were secured in the past six months. These recognise the hard work and dedication of our employees. Q: Shannon Airport recorded an impressive 18 per cent increase in passenger numbers so far this year. To what do you attribute this growth? A: The market is more

aware of the range of destinations on offer and people are looking to Shannon first for their destinations, whether they are going to the US, Europe or the UK. The

era for Shannon and the wider West of Ireland, an area steeped in aviation history, producing many world-firsts and with a pioneering spirit. I believe that this region is well placed to capitalise on the positive signs of growth that are beginning to emerge and Shannon Group plc is working to maximise this potential. For the airport, we have achieved a lot of new destinations. Among the new winter services this year are Berlin, Fuerteventura, Krakow, Paris and Warsaw. Our transatlantic offering is now much more comprehensive than it has been for years, with services to New York, Newark, Boston, Chicago and Philadelphia. For 2015, we would expect the market to respond to this growth and we must continue to take the hassle out of flying to ensure people choose Shannon.

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The Sum of its Parts Simple solutions are built on complex perfection. Just like in business, what appears simple is often far more complicated and intricate than we imagined. That’s because complex perfection doesn’t just happen. It requires expertise, technological prowess and the experience of people who have seen it before. At eircom Business Solutions we understand this. That’s why our business customers, large and small, trust in us. They know we have more technological and network experience than anyone else.

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BEST ICT SERVICE PROVIDER eircom BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

FINDING THE RIGHT SOLUTION Enda Doyle, Director of Innovation and Business Development, eircom Business Solutions, discusses a positive 2014. Q: Was 2014 a positive year for eircom Business Solutions in the ICT arena? A: It has been a very

Q: Can you describe any challenges which had to be overcome this past year? A: Competition is strong

positive year, for a number of reasons. We continue to evolve our solutions portfolio to meet the increasing demand for data-rich solutions, we have won a number of exciting new contracts and our customer retention remains strong. We have also launched a number of compelling SME-specific initiatives including Digital Boost – a a250,000 fund for SMEs looking to innovate and grow their business through investment in digital solutions – and Lab353, an accelerator and investment programme to help ten promising young tech startups to establish or scale their operations in Europe and the US. We continue to play a leadership role in driving a strong digital agenda for Ireland’s business community.

in this market but we are performing well in the context of a sector that has seen declining revenues in recent years. Customer expectations are increasing, with many businesses choosing ICT bundle solutions for flexibility and value. Convergence is also an increasing trend – the ‘always on’ mentality is very much a reality. Increasingly, our customers’ primary concern is being connected, and we want to ensure our customers can do what they want, when they want, from any device and as efficiently as possible. Q: Have the past 12 months seen the introduction of any new products or services? A: It has been a busy year

for our product team, and we have brought a number of significant solutions to market. These include SIP Voice which revolutionises voice calls by converging fixed and mobile over one data network; NGN

Because we have been chosen to manage and deliver some of the largest and most complex ICT projects in Ireland we are the only service provider to truly understand the business needs of organisations from SMEs to Enterprise.” InBUSINESS | Editor’s Choice Awards 2014

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Enda Doyle, Director of Innovation and Business Development, eircom Business Solutions

IP Express which delivers fibre speeds for multi-site organisations; Payments on the Go (PoGo) which allows SMEs to accept debit and credit card payments; and Hosted MDM, our suite of mobile device management solutions. Q: What attributes differentiate eircom Business Solutions from competitors? A: We are investing more

than any other operator in infrastructure. We are now more than half way through our s1.5bn investment programme which includes a d400 million for fibre broadband rollout. As a result, we have the largest fibre network in Ireland, coupled with a high speed 4G network – allowing us to bring

high speed connections to more businesses in more communities across the country. Because we have been chosen to manage and deliver some of the largest and most complex ICT projects in Ireland, we are the only service provider to truly understand the business needs of organisations from SMEs to Enterprise. Lastly, we are the only operator with ISO 20000-1 accreditation covering our full range of services. Q: Finally, your reaction to the award? A: We are delighted to win

the award for Best ICT Services Provider. It’s a great way to end what has been an extremely busy year for eircom Business Solutions. We look forward to what will hopefully be an even busier 2015.

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The natural choice

An Irish law firm with global reach Not all law firms are the same. In Ireland, Eversheds offers a real difference through a full service offering, seamless international capability with 52 offices in 30 jurisdictions and services that go beyond legal advice.

Our roots are in Ireland. But our reach is global. We deliver local expertise coupled with access to a worldwide resource. Our range of products and unique project management approach enable you to control time, costs and risk. If you want to experience a top quality law firm that is committed to unlocking the full potential of your organisation, then we would be delighted to hear from you. Alan Murphy Managing Partner and Chairman – Eversheds International +353 1 6644 289 alanmurphy@eversheds.ie

“Strategic high quality legal advice, pragmatic commercial advice and real value for money.” The criteria which saw Eversheds voted the overall leading firm in the Legal Business, in-house counsel survey 2013.

www.eversheds.ie

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BUSINESS LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR EVERSHEDS

EVERSHEDS – ACHIEVING LOCALLY AND GLOBALLY Eversheds have continued to build on their success in Ireland, and continue to operate on a positive growth path.

versheds Dublin is part of a global network of 57 Eversheds offices operating in 31 countries worldwide. In Ireland, we work with some of the largest, most progressive companies as well as many exciting and innovative smaller companies and start-ups. What is really important to us is that every client receives personal attention, dedicated service and advice which is appropriate to their stage in business, from start-up to established multi-national. We are truly international, offering our multinational clients services on a multi-jurisdictional basis, managed across the globe by one point of contact.

GROWTH We are very encouraged by the emerging economic recovery and we are well placed to take advantage of this and assist our client companies to do the same. Eversheds have achieved very strong growth of 15 per cent from 2013 to 2014 year-on-year, and we believe we are on a very solid growth path, based on solid performance and enhanced services and which we believe is sustainable as we look forward to 2015 and beyond. 2014 has been a period of expansion for us and we have recruited at all levels accordingly. As well as taking on a number of new trainees and solicitors, we have also welcomed seven new partners and senior associates as we staff up to meet the increased demand for our services. We fully expect expansion to continue next year as

2014 has been a period of expansion for us and we have recruited at all levels accordingly. As well as taking on a number of new trainees and solicitors, we have also welcomed seven new partners and senior associates as we staff up to meet the increased demand for our services. InBUSINESS | Editor’s Choice Awards 2014

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we continue to expand the range and depth of our legal services to clients. Areas where we’re seeing particular growth include corporate, banking, financial services, health, property and construction. We also expect strong growth among the start-up community and we are experienced in providing strong advice to this sector.

A DIFFERENT APPROACH Eversheds differentiates itself, internationally and locally, by adopting a more business-oriented

approach more akin to the way our clients run their businesses than a traditional law firm, offering project management type services and billing accordingly. We believe we can add greatest value where our advice is grounded in a business view. At local or international level, we aim to help all our clients in achieving their commercial objectives. We are delighted with our firm’s performance during 2014 and we are very excited about the future for our business.

05/12/2014 12:25

FĂĄilte Ireland â&#x20AC;&#x201C; partnering with businesses, communities and Chambers Ireland to grow tourism in a sustainable manner throughout the country. We look forward to working together in the years ahead.

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04/12/2014 16:27

BEST TOURIST ATTRACTION FÁILTE IRELAND – WILD ATLANTIC WAY

A Welcome Investment

IN THE WILD WEST

The Gathering was always going to be a difficult tourism project to match, but the Wild Atlantic Way is delivering significant social and economic benefits to Ireland, as InBUSINESS discovered.

014 proved to be an important year for Irish tourism. Last year, we had the Gathering which was widely hailed a great success. That project has its own legacy which will stand to the country for years to come. However, as we neared the end of 2013, many people around the country wondered what was next. Early in 2014, Fáilte Ireland launched the ‘next big thing in Irish tourism’, the Wild Atlantic Way. The Wild Atlantic Way is, first and foremost, a tourism initiative that maximises two of our greatest tourism assets: people and places. Fáilte Ireland research has found time and again that these are our two most valued assets. Along the west coast, we have the ultimate landscapes: cliffs, rocks, caves, lighthouses, beaches, crashing waves and uniquely primitive scenery. We, ourselves might take all of this for granted but for many Europeans and North Americans, this part of Ireland, which at one point was ‘the edge of the known world’, has a wild and rugged appeal. Nestled among this wild and beautiful scenery are hundreds of small and welcoming

communities along the western seaboard, offering authenticity and unique experiences through their music, festivals, sports, food and hospitality. The western seaboard, the Wild Atlantic Way, has a huge amount to offer. Fáilte Ireland has managed to take this homegrown, distinctive feature and package it in a way that will entice and delight overseas visitors. The international tourism playing field is a very competitive one and for us to stand out from the crowd and appeal to such a diverse market, we need to offer big unique experiences which are both attractive and of a scale large enough to allow us to stand out in the crowd. The Gathering gave us that opportunity in 2013 and now the Wild Atlantic Way has given us the same opportunity this year and for many years to come. Tourism is not only one of Ireland’s largest, most important industries, it is also one of the few that can actually create significant employment in rural communities. The Wild Atlantic Way has the potential to welcome significant additional visitors to the west coast and in doing so, will generate revenue and jobs

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in many rural communities which badly need it. Fáilte Ireland has been working with businesses, local Chambers, and communities along the Wild Atlantic Way for over two years and the level of participation and enthusiasm for the project has been staggering. If you talk to anyone involved in tourism or in business along the west coast, they will tell you that already, they can see the benefits that the Wild Atlantic Way initiative brings. Despite the constraints brought about by a difficult

economic environment, the Government saw fit to allocate a significant a8 million in funding to the Wild Atlantic Way initiative. This is testament to the confidence held in this project and to communities along the western seaboard. However, this is not simply expenditure, it is an investment. While this money is being spent on developing and upgrading the touring route, the initiative is set to generate a multiple of that for both local and national economies in the years ahead.

05/12/2014 12:34

Three reasons why Facebook Ireland prefer GloHealth Facebook Ireland keep their employees happy with great benefits including the latest thinking in health insurance from GloHealth. Here are some of the reasons why they prefer GloHealth as their health insurance provider: 1. Tailor your plan by choosing Personalised Packages that let you add additional benefits at no extra cost. 2. Kids are free until three on our Better, Best, Ultra & Ultimate plans. 3. Scan & Send your receipts and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll process your claim the next day.

Contact us for a quote today on 01 960 7216 or email Corporate@GloHealth.ie GloHealth Financial Services Ltd trading as GloHealth is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. GloHealth health insurance policies are underwritten by Great Lakes Reinsurance (UK) Plc. Great Lakes Reinsurance (UK) Plc is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules. Terms and conditions apply. GLO-70049-14_Rev1

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28/11/2014 05/12/2014 14:53 10:34

BEST PRIVATE HEALTH INSURER GLOHEALTH

FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH GloHealth CEO Jim Dowdall reflects on the company’s strong performance throughout 2014. Q: Has GloHealth

A: Yes, very much so. It is almost two and a half years since we launched GloHealth and in that time we have had unparalleled growth which we are delighted with. 110,000 customers have now switched to GloHealth, a level of growth never before achieved in the health insurance industry. This is even more impressive when you consider that this growth is happening in a contracting market. We are very proud of the fact that so many individuals and companies have determined that GloHealth best responds to their health insurance needs.

TripAdvisor, Kleinwort Benson Investors and Airbnb choose GloHealth as their health insurance provider is something we are very proud of. When we launched GloHealth in 2012 we provided customers with the ability to tailor their health insurance to their own particular needs and in 2014 we continued to build on this by bringing more innovations to our market. In May, GloHealth launched the Net Plans which introduced the next generation of tailored health cover to the market followed by our Activate plans in August. The overall GloHealth product range offers our customers unparalleled control, flexibility and peace of mind.

Q: What are some of the

Q: Why do you think so

highlights from the past year?

many consumers and companies continue to choose GloHealth to provide for their health insurance needs?

continued to build on the strong position attained in 2013?

A: The fact that our business has continued to grow every single day is very satisfying. We are also delighted that so many companies are now selecting GloHealth, from the largest companies to the newest FDI companies that are setting up in Ireland. Having successful companies such as Facebook, Dell, Boston Scientific Ireland,

A: Quite simply it is down to the quality of our innovative health insurance products – which let our customers tailor their benefits to suit their own needs, all of which is supported by market leading service. In 2014 we continued to set the standard and we are

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Jim Dowdall, CEO, GloHealth

delighted to be recognised as the benchmark for quality health insurance. As a result more companies select GloHealth because they get greater value from their health insurance spend and their employees have a higher level of appreciation for a very important benefit being provided to them.

is a simple process and a very positive experience for their employees. We expect that we will continue to see an increasing number of companies selecting GloHealth as their health insurer of choice.

Q: Where does GloHealth

A: Being recognised for the second year by InBUSINESS for an Editor’s Choice Award is very satisfying for all in our team. It is fantastic to get this recognition for what we have achieved. For a young company like GloHealth to be recognised as the Best Private Health Insurer in Ireland is something we are proud of.

go from here?

A: We are determined that we will build on the record breaking success that we have achieved over the last two and a half years and we will continue to be regarded as the benchmark for quality health insurance. Companies now understand that changing health insurer

Q: Finally, your reaction to being nominated for the Editor’s Choice award for the second year running?

05/12/2014 14:31

Some moments teach you all you need to know about yourself This Is Major

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04/12/2014 05/12/2014 10:46 10:51

BEST MARKETING INITIATIVE ELECTRIC IRELAND - GAA MINOR CHAMPIONSHIPS

A MAJOR FEAT IN MARKETING Through its #ThisIsMajor marketing campaign, Electric Ireland succeeded in refocusing attention on the GAA Minor Championships by championing what makes it so different and special.

lectric Ireland has been partner to the GAA Minor Championships since 2012. In the past, awareness of the sponsorship has been low due to the large amount of clutter in the GAA sponsorship space. Research showed that the Minors, as a group, were somewhat misrepresented, forgotten and left in the wake of their senior counterparts. In 2014, Electric Ireland pioneered fresh thinking within sports sponsorship to reignite the partnership. Electric Ireland set out to challenge audiences to think and feel differently about the Minors and to inspire pride. They wanted to bring meaning to the partnership. They hoped that in turn they could help increase the profile of the Championships and attendance at the games. With 21 GAA sponsors, many using very similar creative – Electric Ireland had to look at what makes the Minors different. They used the idea of “coming of age” to showcase their understanding of what it’s like to be 17. Through an integrated advertising, PR and social media activation programme they championed the

players and brought meaning to their concept – #ThisIsMajor. A new #ThisIsMajor TV ad was created and ran on national TV during the Championship. The ad intended to break the mould of traditional GAA advertising and to elevate the stature and understanding of the Minor players’ lives through a series of scenes including training, matches, school, exams, romance and the debs. The ad featured Minor players rather than actors to capture the dynamic energy of what it means to be a Minor GAA player. Before the ad was aired, Electric Ireland created an organic buzz around the new TV ad by seeding the ad firstly to the Minor players, then online to key media and stakeholders. To further capitalise on the concept, the brand produced a four-part #ThisIsMajor online video series. The videos brought the TV ad to life by documenting the busy lives of an individual player from each of the final teams in the lead up to the All-Ireland Final. The videos were seeded online and were also aired by TG4 as part of their pre match build up. Electric Ireland wanted

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to complement its #ThisIsMajor activity with something that would directly empower and engage the Minor players. They wanted to publicly champion the players, their insights and their opinions - to give them the power. Traditional award ceremonies don’t resonate with teenagers so they needed a different approach. With this in mind, Electric Ireland empowered all of the Provincial Finalists to nominate a fellow teammate to win a specially engraved mini iPad. #ThisIsMajor succeeded in repositioning the GAA Minor Championships by championing what makes it so different and special. Through a new TV ad and supporting PR and social media initiatives,

the partnership between the Minors and Electric Ireland was brought to life for the players, their managers and families in a meaningful way and the results followed. “There was a lot more media attention this year,” said Cian Lynch, Limerick Hurling Captain. PR editorial value increased four-fold on the previous year and 1,880,653 engaged through social media. One in five people claimed they would be more inclined to go to a Minor match because of the campaign and awareness of Electric Ireland as sponsor rose dramatically, with a corresponding impact on brand affinity scores. “Now when you think Minors, you think Electric Ireland,” said John Murphy, Wicklow Hurling Manager.

05/12/2014 12:36

Value through Innovation

Even after a century of experience, we remain intensely curious. For the sake of future generations. Boehringer Ingelheim has always remained true to its character as an independent family-owned company. Our vision drives us forward. It helps to foster value through innovation in our company and to look to the future with constantly renewed commitment and ambition. Today, we operate globally with 142 affiliated companies in 50 countries. With more than 41,500 employees worldwide and a track record developed over 125 years, we are dedicated to improving the outlook for healthier lives. www.boehringer-ingelheim.ie

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04/12/2014 16:30

BEST IN PHARMA BOEHRINGER INGELHEIM

SUCCESS THROUGH PERSEVERANCE Building on their success in 2013, a combination of new product launches, continued viability in the face of increased competition, and a sprinkling of CSR work has seen Boehringer Ingelheim claim the Best in Pharma award for a second consecutive year.

or many Irish companies, the current business climate is a challenging one, with success measured by the ability to keep one’s head above water, and even thrive in such a demanding marketplace. 2014 has been a relatively positive year for pharmaceutical company Boehringer Ingelheim – despite some challenges throughout the past 12 months, several important product launches have seen the company branching out into new sectors. “It was quite a challenging year,” says Dr Colin Edwards, General Manager, Boehringer Ingelheim Ireland. “We have had significant new competitors entering the market, competing for business in the respiratory arena, for example.” Despite this competition, 2014 has seen the pharmaceutical company launch a number of products across the respiratory, oncology and diabetes sectors. In March they launched their first Oncology product – Afatinib – for patients with non-small-cell lung cancer with a particular genetic mutation. July saw the introduction of a second long acting

bronchodilator molecule, Olodaterol, designed for use with their Respimat soft mist inhaler. “That was significant because it’s part of an ongoing development that we’re committed to in respiratory products,” Edwards explains. “Launching a product in Oncology was great, because it’s a specific new direction.” In addition, Empagliflozin – launched in September – is part of a new class of drugs used to treat diabetes, and the second to market in this field. The plan for the coming months and years is to build on these product launches and continue to cement Boehringer Ingelheim’s position as Ireland’s most innovative and competitive pharmaceutical firm. In Oncology, the company currently has two products at a very late stage in their development. Boehringer has also received a European Medicines Agency positive opinion for a new treatment for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, an important treatment option for a very difficult disease. Boehringer Ingelheim has also ensured they utilise their success for the greater good. In December

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Dr Colin Edwards, General Manager, Boehringer Ingelheim

of last year, the company announced a threeyear partnership with ChangeNation, a project run by Ashoka Ireland, which brings together social entrepreneurs. Aimed at transforming the health system in Ireland, it allows both organisations to leverage each other’s skills and expertise. Five solutions are encompassed in the ChangeNation cluster – Project Echo; Technology For Better Medicine, Third Age; keeping older people engaged in and connected with life, Siel Bleu – Exercise For Older People,

MyMind – First Aid for Your Mind and The Eden Alternative – Transforming Nursing Homes. Having won the category for the second year running, Edwards is understandably pleased, and is already looking forward to future qualification. “We were very surprised to win last year because we didn’t see it coming – obviously I’m delighted to win it for a second year in a row,” he says. “Our next objective is to see if we can make it a hatrick! So we’ll have to do something really special next year.”

05/12/2014 12:38

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29/10/2014 04/12/2014 12:29 16:31

BEST FINANCIAL APP AIB - ME2U

BANKING MADE MOBILE Fergal Coburn, Head of Strategy & Development, Direct Channels at AIB explains how the organisation’s Me2U app has gone from strength to strength, in keeping with AIB’s digital strategy.

he world is undeniably moving to digital, particularly mobile. Increasing numbers of people are shopping online, booking seats or tickets online, researching online and banking online – all through their mobile devices. As a result, it’s imperative that businesses recognise this shift in attitudes, and reorganise their strategy accordingly. That’s exactly what AIB has done over the past two years. “AIB has a very focused mobile banking strategy with the general population trend towards the adoption of mobile in all aspects of their lives. Financial services is obviously a key aspect, and the public have shown en masse that they want to use mobile to access their banking services,” explains AIB’s Head of Strategy & Development, Direct Channels at AIB, Fergal Coburn. “AIB, over the past two years, has offered the leading mobile banking application in the market and a very significant part of our user base is actively using mobile banking in excess of 13 times per month.” As part of this strategy came a new banking app from AIB, known as Me2U.

Provided in association with VISA the app allows registered AIB phone and internet banking/tablet banking customers to send money from a visa debit or credit card to a recipient’s card – using the recipient’s mobile phone. The process is quite simple and intuitive – customers simply need to register for online, phone or tablet banking, and then download the app. To ensure secure transactions, each install of Me2U includes a Globally Unique Identifier (GUID) installed on the device once the app has been linked to the account. An AIB code card or reader is also required when registering or editing Me2U details, while a secure password helps protects the app from unwanted intrusion. “Me2U has been up and running since the beginning of the year. It is a deployment we have done in partnership with VISA to enable person-to-person mobile payments,” Coburn explains. “Our initial deployment was driven by the need to get the service to customers as fast as possible via an independent standalone app. Time to market was a key determinant to get it into the hands of our customers,

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AIB’s Lab in Dundrum

to get their sense of how best to use it, and to receive feedback on the design so as to help us in creating our mobile banking systems going forward.” Feedback from users has remained positive in the months since the launch of Me2U, and has been used by AIB’s development team to amend and update their strategy where required. Of particular help has been the AIB Lab in Dundrum, which has been used as a sounding board to bring customers in to test AIB’s latest technological offerings and to get feedback. Coburn remains satisfied with the efforts

of his team in ensuring AIB’s strategy remains up-to-date with consumer trends, and views the Editor’s Choice Award as a reflection of this hard work. “We’re humbled by the positive feedback we’ve got and to get an award like this we view as fantastic recognition and endorsement of the strategy we’ve being following. That, coupled with the feedback we’re getting from customers, really assures us that we’re on the right path and the strategy we have for mobile banking is at the centre of what customers expect from us,” Coburn concludes.

05/12/2014 14:25

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05/12/2014 10:48

BEST IN INTERNATIONAL LOGISTICS DHL

FLYING HIGH As Ireland’s economic recovery gained momentum in 2014, so too has DHL Express enjoyed another strong year. Reflecting on the year, Managing Director Bernard McCarthy offers some views on the year from a DHL perspective and looks forward to what prospects 2015 may hold for Ireland’s exporting sector.

s the year draws to a close it’s pleasing to reflect on what has been another successful year. The often-quoted line that Ireland’s economic recovery would be exportled has certainly come to pass during 2014. The Central Bank in their latest quarterly bulletin forecast that total exports of goods and services would grow by 7.3 per cent in 2014. In their commentary they add further weight to this point when they comment that “largely as a result of the strong upward revision to the export projections, the outlook for GDP growth in 2014 has been raised significantly.” This is clearly good news from a DHL Express perspective but more importantly it is obviously very good news for the Irish economy and Irish business. In DHL our business is to facilitate international trade. Indeed one of the most encouraging trends to emerge from 2014 has been the extent to which Irish companies have looked beyond Irish shores to grow their business internationally. The benefits of exporting are many and various and whilst going international

is not the right answer for every Irish business, more and more progressive companies are following this path. Many companies learned a tough lesson during the recession – Ireland is a relatively small domestic market and when such a market starts to contract and price comes under pressure, it may already be too late to start to look for alternative markets and customers.

BROADENING HORIZONS At DHL we’re taking an active role in really seeking to encourage companies to broaden their horizons and take their first steps into the export marketplace. Apart from our ‘day-job’ which is to provide the network infrastructure to physically move Irish exports to any one of more than 220 countries worldwide, we have developed a range of resources for new or potential exporters to support them on their export journey. Our new website (www.dhlguide. ie) provides a guide to taking your business international, with tips and practical advice on everything from export planning and research,

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customs, Incoterms, shipping documentation, insurance and more. For many Irish companies, the UK and Northern Ireland is the first port of call when seeking to enter the export marketplace. In many cases this makes perfect sense. But when you look at Ireland’s overall trade volume for 2013, it’s quite startling to note that almost 50 per cent of our total volume went to the UK and NI markets. This suggests that we may be somewhat overly focused on our near neighbours. The European Union, despite its well documented growth challenge, is a major world trading power in its own right. With just 7 per cent of the world’s population, the EU’s trade with the rest of the world accounts for around 20 per cent of global exports and imports. And from

the perspective of an Irish exporter we have this huge market opportunity ‘on our doorstep’; easily accessible with excellent transport links; no customs restrictions or controls for the vast majority of goods and, for the 18 Eurozone countries, no exchange rate issues or risk. So in summation, the outlook for 2015 looks very promising and I’m optimistic both in terms of the prospects for DHL Express and the export sector generally. It’s great to finish the year on a high and I’d like to thank InBUSINESS and the Chambers of Commerce of Ireland for selecting DHL Express as the winner of the Best in International Logistics category. I see it as recognition of the hard work of everyone in DHL Express Ireland and I’m delighted to accept the award on their behalf.

05/12/2014 12:48

ALL-NEW FORD MONDEO COMING SOON ford.ie

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13/11/2014 04/12/2014 12:33 16:35

FLEET CAR OF THE YEAR FORD MONDEO

The All New Ford Mondeo:

AN IDEAL CHOICE FOR FLEET DRIVERS Ford’s Mondeo has consistently proven itself as the premier choice for fleet drivers. The latest edition has just reached Irish shores.

he significantly upgraded all new Ford Mondeo has just arrived in Ireland. This is the latest version of the nameplate that quickly established itself as a favourite car among Ireland’s business drivers when the car was first launched here back in 1994. The Ford Mondeo has consistently set the standard in its sector for driving dynamics, comfort, innovative technologies and all round value for money. “The Mondeo has long been a firm favourite with business drivers and fleet operators because it is a true driver’s car with classleading driving dynamics,” said Eddie Murphy, Chairman and Managing Director of Ford Ireland. “Equally, it has always rated very well in relation to low cost of ownership, with excellent residual value, low running costs and great value service, maintenance and repair costs. And now the all new Mondeo raises the bar with a sporty new look, great safety credentials, great technologies and great powertrains delivering excellent driving economy.”

NEW ARRIVAL The new Mondeo features a wider and increased wheelbase length, meaning that five adults can fit comfortably inside, as well as plenty of luggage. And, although it’s engineered for road comfort, great for journeys of all distances, make no mistake about its peppiness through the corners. On the outside, its stance remains the same, though there’s a touch of America in its updated looks. The front end is dominated by a wider grille, flanked on either side by slim, aggressive headlights. Inside the cabin, the driver’s area is uncluttered, with everything necessary within reach. The central column is dominated by a large touchscreen which provides the driver with access to all of the car’s major functions. There’s also a voice activation control option – Ford SYNC 2 – which lets the driver keep their eyes on the road while accessing phone, music, navigation and more. It’s also quite intuitive – for

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example, if you tell the system you’re hungry, it will direct you to the nearest food outlet. “With a five year warranty and with service intervals increased for the popular 2.0 litre TDCi model, extended to 30,000km or two years, the all new Mondeo is sure to maintain its popularity with business drivers and fleet operators who have to keep an eye on costs,” concluded Murphy. Available in Ireland in a five-door bodystyle and as a wagon, the all new Mondeo offers greater refinement and craftsmanship, and a raft of new technologies including Ford’s adaptive LED headlamps, inflatable rear seatbelts and precollision assist with pedestrian detection.

Active park assist is by no means a new technology, but in the new Mondeo it acts as a benchmark for other manufacturers. The process is seamless, and all the driver needs to do is operate the pedals. Inflatable seatbelts are also an interesting addition – the belt expands in the event of an accident, spreading the force of the impact over an area five times greater than that of the average seatbelt. The Mondeo has been a key model for many of Ireland’s largest fleet operators including the Gardaí, Bank of Ireland, John Sisk, eircom, Kerry Group, Quintiles and BWG Foods. Though it’s been a long time coming, it was worth the wait.

05/12/2014 12:39

The new Audi A6 ultra: less stops, more journeys. Prepare for a breakthrough in efficiency. At Audi, ultra means efficiency in its most perfect form. With CO2 emissions as low as 109g, achieved through intelligent design, innovative materials and advanced technology, ultra breaks new ground in fuel economy and efficiency. Experience the new 150ps and 190ps 2.0 TDI Audi A6 ultra with S tronic.

From €429 PCP*

Discover the new Audi A6 ultra at audi.ie/a6 * Typical Finance example: A6 ultra OTRP €44,750. Deposit / Part Exchange €13,583.67. 36 monthly payments of €429. Optional Final Payment €19,316. Total hire purchase price €48,493.67 including acceptance fee (€75) and completion fee (€75). Minimum deposit is 10%. Subject to lending criteria. Prices are correct as of 21/09/2014. This offer is made under a hire purchase agreement. Audi Finance is a trading style of Volkswagen Bank GmbH Branch Ireland, authorised by the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority in Germany and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules. Audi Ireland has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information but does not accept liability for any errors. Model shown for illustrative purposes only.

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04/12/2014 17/11/2014 16:33 16:25

EXECUTIVE CAR OF THE YEAR AUDI

THE ASTOUNDING A6 Audi’s A6 premium saloon has been wowing consumers and reviewers alike.

nnovative technologies, progressive design, with an enhanced range of equipment. The new Audi A6 combines these three development pillars with greater efficiency and supreme craftsmanship, all of which the discerning executive driver demands. The new A6 was unveiled to the world at the Paris Motor show in September and arrived in Ireland in November with the 2.0TDI 150 SE available from a44,750 OTR and available on PCP through Audi Finance from a429 per month (APR 4.9 per cent). It has been refreshed by new engine configurations, transmissions and upgraded infotainment systems. The exterior revamp features sharper lines, new lights, tailpipes and a tauter surface offers a more aggressive note, tinged with elegance yet delivered with meticulous precision. Seven powerful yet highly efficient engine choices will be on hand for customers. All other engine variants are linked to either a newly designed six speed manual gearbox that is particularly lightweight and lowfriction, or a new seven speed S-Tronic twin-clutch transmission. S-Tronic can be specified on all engines for a premium of only

a2,300 enabling customers to enjoy lightning fast gear changes with even greater efficiency. The engine range offers power units between 150PS and 320PS, and complies with stringent EU6 emissions legislation. Audi ultra is the umbrella term Audi use for all efficiency technologies and sustainability. It is showcased by a CO2 champion in each range which proudly wears the ‘ultra’ badging. The new A6 delivers segment leading efficiency with TDI150 and TDI190 ultra models capable of consuming as little as 4.2l/100km (67mpg) and with CO2 output from just 109g/km resulting in annual road tax of just a190. Inside the cabin, an already generous level of equipment has been improved with Xenon lights, MMI navigation, acoustic glazing and an anti-glare interior mirror are now standard in all SE versions and above. A new SE Business line which features electric seats ash wood inlays, four zone climate, MMI Navigation Plus and 18” ten spoke alloy wheels is introduced for the first time. The Technology package featuring MMI Navigation Plus, Audi Connect, Bose surround sound, head

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up display and a reverse camera places weight behind Audi’s ethos of Vorsprung durch Technik. The upgraded range which merges power, efficiency and technological innovation, has received an overwhelmingly positive reaction since its launch, and provides a fitting end to a year marked by increased sales and consumer satisfaction. “It has been another positive year for Audi in Ireland. The Audi brand continues to grow and we remain Ireland’s number one premium car marque. Sales are up 16 per cent vs 2013,” says Christian Gussen, Managing Director, Audi Ireland. “The introduction of new models such as the Audi TT, A6 and A7, coupled with our commitment to providing Irish motorists with an unrivalled customer experience, means that we are well placed for

continuing this success right through 2015.” Having seen the A6 selected as Executive Car of the Year for the second consecutive year, Gussen is also naturally proud of its continued success. “We’re delighted to have won this award for the second year. The A6 has been a popular model of choice for Irish motorists in the premium segment. With the recent introduction of the new A6 we are writing the next chapter in an excellent success story,” Gussen adds. “It embodies Audi’s Vorsprung durch Technik claim with the introduction of Audi ultra technology which connects hundreds of innovations together to deliver better efficiency. The car’s improved equipment combined with greater fuel efficiency and lower running costs make it an even more enticing prospect for the discerning executive buyer.”

05/12/2014 12:17

LA 15 T ST TH O C D OR HA EC D N E M ER CE BE R

O R D ER O N L I N E O R I N ST O R E. V I SI T MA RKS AN D S PE N C E R .IE

CHRISTMAS FOOD TO ORDER It’s time to order YOUR perfect Christmas. With M&S, you can order your Christmas food in store and online at marksandspencer.ie until 5pm on Monday the 15th of December. And we’ll have it all ready to pick up in store between the 22nd and 24th of December.

Terms and conditions apply. Subject to product and collection time slot availability. Available in ROI stores and online. © Marks and Spencer (IRL) Ltd.

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05/12/2014 10:36

BEST IN RETAIL EXCELLENCE MARKS AND SPENCER

COMMITTED TO THE CUSTOMER With an Irish presence spanning more than 35 years, Marks and Spencer remains robust in their offering of best in class service and customer engagement. Q: Could you give me some background on M&S’s presence in Ireland?

A: Marks & Spencer opened its first store in Mary Street, Dublin in November 1979 and now over 35 years later has 17 stores. The company employs 2,800 staff in the Republic of Ireland. Q: How has 2014 been for M&S in Ireland and what is your outlook for 2015?

A: 2014 has been a busy year - we are now well set up for the festive period offering everything our Irish customers are looking for across food, party wear, decorations and novelty Christmas jumpers, through to more luxury items for that special gift, such as our cashmere collection and beautiful lingerie and nightwear. Q: What would you say has been behind the success of the M&S brand in Ireland and abroad?

A: Behind the success

of our brand, we really care about our local community and we are delighted to work with active charity partners in Ireland including The Marie Keating Foundation, Oxfam, ISPCC, Focus Ireland and Down Syndrome Ireland. We were also really pleased to have won the ‘Overall Achievement in CSR’ award at the 2014 Chambers Ireland CSR Awards. We are proud to support Irish business by working with over 26 Irish food suppliers on

the Island of Ireland including Lir Chocolates (Meath), Keelings (Dublin), Horgans Cheese (Cork) and Monaghan Mushrooms (Monaghan).

Q: What emphasis do you place on customer care at M&S?

A: Customer care is at the heart our our business both in store and online on our website, and through our social media channels on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Q: How has M&S adapted to the changing nature of retail in terms of making shopping more convenient?

A: In April 2012 we launched a much anticipated Irish website: www.marksandspencer. ie. Customers also have the option of collecting their orders in store at no extra cost, from any of our InBUSINESS | Editor’s Choice Awards 2014

035 Editors Choice 2014_M&S.indd 35

stores, through the Shop Your Way Service. This year, we are offering our Christmas Food to Order online for the first time in Ireland. Our customers tell us they are looking for inspiration at Christmas, so the online service means they can easily browse our range, which includes more new, innovative food items than ever before, and menu ideas to help prepare for all those Christmas parties and meals. Then they are just a few clicks and a quick trip into their nearest store away from being all set for Christmas.

Q: Any future plans for M&S in Ireland you would like to share with us?

A: We are fully committed to our business in Ireland and look forward to opening a new flagship store in Limerick in 2016, which will create 250 new jobs.

05/12/2014 12:40

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05/12/2014 14:32

BEST IN GREEN ENERGY AWARD ENERGIA

Helping Businesses Boost THEIR GREEN CREDENTIALS As one of the largest investors in the Irish renewable sector, Energia Group is helping businesses take a greener approach through the provision of funding for energy saving projects.

id you know that Energia is the Greenest Energy Supplier on the island of Ireland* among the leading larger suppliers? Whether it’s promoting energy efficiency in business or generating renewable energy, Energia has some of the strongest “green” credentials in Irish business.

INCREASING BUSINESSES’ ENERGY EFFICIENCY Energia has recently introduced an Energy Efficiency Funding Scheme for businesses. The scheme provides businesses with funding for up to 30 per cent of the cost of energy saving projects. Replacing lighting, upgrading heating systems and refrigeration, variable speed drives and air compressors are all part of the funding scheme. Not only will your business benefit from the

funding provided by Energia but with the additional cost savings from the reduction in energy usage means that these projects can literally pay for themselves. The typical savings that can be achieved for each project are detailed here: • Lighting: Reduce your lighting costs by up to 75 per cent by switching to LED. • Heating: Installing modern controls can save at least 25 per cent of annual heating costs. • Refrigeration: Upgrading refrigeration can bring savings of up to 30 per cent. In addition, Energia will also provide expertise and assistance with implementation of your project. Whether you are implementing the project yourself or you require assistance from our carefully selected group of partners, Energia can help to get your project underway with safety and quality at the core. Note that projects need to have a minimum capital value of a15,000 to qualify for funding. Energia has also developed

InBUSINESS | Editor’s Choice Awards 2014

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To mark Global Wind Day 2014, students from local schools visited one of Energia’s newest windfarms in Hollyford, Co Tipperary.

considerable expertise in the area of energy efficiency training and have helped to boost many businesses’ competitiveness by giving them the knowledge and tools that help them save money by reducing their energy consumption. Energy efficiency can start with simple low cost initiatives such as staff awareness days and for some companies a complete business wide process has been implemented, including reviewing purchasing processes, conducting an energy audit, implementing staff training and awareness programmes.

GENERATING “GREEN” ENERGY Energia Group is one of the most significant contributors to the achievement of Ireland’s

renewable targets and one of the largest investors in the renewable sector. The Group currently supplies 25 per cent of Ireland’s wind power, just over 740 MegaWatts (MWs), to homes and businesses across Ireland, and are on track to supply over 1,000MWs in the next three years. The majority of this green energy comes via power purchase agreements that Energia has with wind farms throughout Ireland. Energia Renewables also operates 133MW at 12 wind farms, and has a further 150MWs in construction or development, representing an investment of over a270 million since 2008. *Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) report 2012 on fuel-mix and CO2 emissions for individual electricity suppliers licensed in Ireland.

05/12/2014 12:41

“It’s easy to promise great insurance, but Zurich really delivers”

Call Zurich on

1890 44 77 99 or talk to your broker

Zurich car and home insurance Promising you quality cover, value and a lot more: • 24 hour emergency helpline • Award winning customer service* • Receive updates on your claim via SMS

www.zurichinsurance.ie Terms and conditions apply. *Overall Winner General Insurance, IBA Insurance Service Awards 2012, 2011 & 2010 and PIBA Service Excellence Awards 2014, 2013, 2012 & 2011. Zurich Insurance plc is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

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27/11/2014 10:48 15:00 05/12/2014

BEST IN FINANCIAL SERVICES ZURICH GENERAL INSURANCE IRELAND

QUALITY,

SIMPLIFIED 2014 marked the year Conor Brennan became CEO of Zurich General Insurance in Ireland. Here he talks about why they’re focusing on delivering quality products and services to convince customers to think about more than just price. Q: What makes Zurich the best performing financial services company? A: It could be said that

the answer depends upon who you ask. It’s actually been our whole Group’s ambition since about 2010 to ‘be the best’ as measured by our customers, employees and shareholders. For our shareholders, being the best means delivering the kind of returns which give them the confidence to continue to invest in our business in Ireland. For all our employees, being the best means providing fulfilling, enriching and challenging careers which provide them with

opportunities to reach their potential. But at the root of achieving those goals is being considered the best among our customers, without whom we’d no longer exist. There are many competitors out there offering customers choice and if we are to continue to attract and retain customers, we have to offer them something which others do not. Q: So, in a crowded marketplace, how do you stand out? A: Having a healthy

insurance market means competition. But the difficulty is convincing those consumers that they need to

think about more than just price. Of course, knowing the economic pressure everyone is under, price is important – but we need to change the agenda so people are also thinking about the quality of the product and service that they want from their insurer. Not all products – and not all companies – are the same. Whether it’s someone’s home, their car or their business, at Zurich our aim is treat them as individuals, get to know more about them and then provide products and services which will meet their needs. We’re actually seeing in some parts of our business a flight to quality, with customers beginning to question not only the price of their product but whether that product provides them with the peace of mind they’re looking for. I’m proud of our financial stability and the reputation for service we have which gives our customers confidence to do business with us and trust us with some of the most important aspects of their lives. Q: Is the Irish market ready to put quality above price? A: When we looked back

Conor Brennan, CEO, Zurich General Insurance in Ireland

InBUSINESS | Editor’s Choice Awards 2014

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over the past decade, it became clear that the average price of a motor

insurance product was far lower now than it was then and it’s no secret that insurers are losing money on some lines of business. That’s a potential issue because we could see issues with capacity – where insurers reduce their appetites for loss-making lines of business. Instead of a spiral of cheaper prices which are unsustainable in the longer term, we need to focus on understanding customers better, helping them identify and manage their risks and then delivering the kind of products and services which they consider to be good value and which they’re willing to pay the right price for. Q: What does it mean to you to be named Best in Financial Services? A: It’s a huge honour and

I’m delighted to accept it on behalf of every single member of the General Insurance team in Ireland. I’m particularly pleased to succeed our Global Life business in Ireland who were winners of this award last year and who are Best in Life Assurance this year. It’s very satisfying to know that, whether our Life or our General business, Zurich has such a great reputation here in Ireland.

05/12/2014 12:42

LEARN HERE TO SUCCEED OUT THERE

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04/12/2014 16:33

BEST BUSINESS SCHOOL DUBLIN BUSINESS SCHOOL

GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS DBS CEO Gerry Muldowney discusses the qualities which make DBS an attractive option. Q: Congratulations firstly on winning the award for Best Business School. In your opinion, what is it about DBS that continues to make it an award-winning institution? A: We are delighted to

have won this prestigious award for the second time. Over the last forty years Dublin Business School has established itself as the market leader in the independent education sector as a result of the quality of its programmes and the staff who deliver them. This is what attracts a wide range of domestic and international students who now total nearly 9,000 in number. The practical focus of our programmes also makes our graduates very attractive to employers. Q: As budding professionals, why should undergraduates choose to study at DBS? A: DBS is attractive to

undergraduate students for a variety of reason which could be summarised in one generic statement: ‘The Quality of the Student Experience’. The three years of study with DBS provides our students not only with academic knowledge, we also equip our students with personal development and life skills which prepare them for their future careers. This coupled with

the added value of the ‘personal touch’ approach by the college makes us attractive to learners. Q: Looking back on the past 12 months, are there any events or highlights which stand out? A: There have been many

highlights for the college in 2014, with the standout ones as follows: Our programme in Malaysia in conjunction with the Malaysian Government was formally approved and validated by the Irish and Malaysian regulatory bodies in May 2013, and 170 students commenced their studies in September 2014. In our professional school, our students continue to excel in the externally and globally examined professional accountancy examinations. 37 of our students were awarded places and prizes in the examinations, and the statistics speak for themselves; 13 students placed 1st in Ireland, 24 students placed in the top 20 in the world, 13 students placed in the top 10 in the world, and three students were placed 1st, 2nd and 5th in the world. Q: Has 2014 seen the introduction of any new or updated initiatives or programmes of study?

InBUSINESS | Editor’s Choice Awards 2014

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Gerry Muldowney and lecturer Gerry Fahy, pictured with student Brian Phelan, who won first place Worldwide in his CIMA F1 exam.

A: DBS continues to

update, enhance and add relevant content and features to its programmes. 2014 saw 40 of our Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) programmes be successfully revalidated through a programmatic review process for a further five years. We also launched new programmes in computing (BSc in Computing) and psychology, with the validation of our new MSc in Applied Psychology. Q: In what way does DBS continue to engage with Irish businesses? A: DBS works very

closely with industry in the development, design and delivery of all of its programmes. We have an ‘industry-led’ approach in our programme design, which is why an award from the likes of Chambers Ireland with over 20,000 employer members means so much to us.

In the last year we successfully developed a cloud sales programmes with Microsoft Ireland and its employer network, and had significant input into our new BSc in Computing from Version 1- one of the rising indigenous stars of the Irish tech sector. These are just some of the examples of the industry liaison our programmes have had, but we should note that all our programmes have had considerable input from employers over the last number of years. The range of input includes feedback on content, skills for the workplace and personal development skills. These areas are now a standard design and content feature of all of our programmes. We at DBS feel strongly that this is one of our unique USPs, and we would encourage all Chambers members to contact the college if they would like to engage in this process. Your contribution would be most welcome!

05/12/2014 12:15

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04/12/2014 16:34

BEST IN E-COMMERCE PAYPAL

STRIVING FOR EXCELLENCE Louise Phelan, PayPal VP Global Operations EMEA and American Chamber of Commerce President, discusses a positive year for the e-commerce giant. Q: Looking back on the past 12 months, has it been a positive time for PayPal’s Irish operations? A: Absolutely. It has

teammates have been busy making an impact on our local community as well as on our business metrics.

Q: How does this fit into PayPal’s presence on the global stage? A: Globally we

been a fantastic year for PayPal. We have grown our customer base and we have grown our team here in Ireland. On top of the 1,000 jobs already committed to, we announced the creation of a further 400 jobs for Dundalk in June 2014. Since then we have hired over 200 people. We were delighted to be crowned Ireland’s ‘Contact Centre of the Year’ and went on to be awarded the title of ‘European Contact Centre of the Year’. We welcomed our new PayPal President, Dan Schulman, to Dublin recently and gave him a great feel for how we operate here in EMEA. This year we also launched our new corporate social responsibility strategy, Social Innovation, and our

Q: What stands out the most in the last year? A: I would have to say our

are growing all the time. Our customer base has increased to 157 million active accounts - a 20 million increase in the past twelve months. We have also entered ten new markets in the past year. PayPal is now available in 203 markets. We are constantly developing our processes, our Louise Phelan, PayPal VP Global Operations EMEA and American policies and Chamber of Commerce President our apps in order to ensure on setting both companies we continue to provide up for success and experiences our customers positioning them to love. Each and every one of capitalise on growth our teammates in Ireland opportunities. It’s a very plays a role in that global exciting time for us. growth.

jobs announcement. We employ 1,500 people in Dublin and had already committed to hiring 1,000 people in Dundalk by 2016. In June I was joined by An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, Ministers Bruton and Howlin, to announce that we would be creating an additional 400 jobs in Dundalk. By 2018 PayPal will employ 2,900 people here in Ireland. Helping to bring that level of investment and employment to Ireland is of huge personal significance for me. The Government and bodies like IDA Ireland and the American Chamber of Commerce are doing tremendous work in rebuilding Ireland’s international reputation – it’s great that PayPal can play a part too.

It has been a fantastic year for PayPal. We have grown our customer base and we have grown our team here in Ireland. On top of the 1,000 jobs already committed to, we announced the creation of a further 400 jobs for Dundalk in June 2014.” InBUSINESS | Editor’s Choice Awards 2014

043 Editors Choice 2014_Paypal.indd 43

Q: Can we look forward to any announcements or developments for PayPal in 2015? A: We recently took our

Q: Your response to winning InBusiness Editor’s Choice Best in e-commerce? A: It’s a huge honour and

first step towards building eBay and PayPal into two separate, enduring commerce and payment businesses. At a Leadership level we are concentrating

tops off a great year for us at PayPal. I accept this award on behalf of all the talented teammates at PayPal who drive our success.

05/12/2014 12:43

BEST F OR BU SINESS Thank you for naming Aer Lingus Business Airline 2014

At Aer Lingus, we take great care in everything we do - from baggage handling, to catering, to customer care. The people you see, and the people you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t, are all dedicated to making you feel welcome, every step of your journey. Great care on every level - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of the many ways Aer Lingus takes care of you. A smarter schedule: Aer Lingus has more daily flights to London than any other airline. A smarter home: Our T2 homes in Dublin and London allow us to offer the best terminal-to-terminal experience in Europe. A smarter selection: We have the best choice of flights to Europe. The smart way to the U.S.A.: With us, you can pre-clear U.S. Customs in Ireland before you fly. And not forgetting our new transatlantic Business Class service which will take off in March 2015.

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04/12/2014 10:53 12:26 05/12/2014

BUSINESS AIRLINE OF THE YEAR AER LINGUS

Continuing to Connect

IRELAND WITH THE WORLD On the back of impressive Q3 figures for Aer Lingus, Declan Kearney, Director of Communications, tells InBUSINESS about a successful year for the airline and why 2015 is a good time for change. Q: Could you tell me about how 2014 was for Aer Lingus?

A: It’s been a fantastic year for Aer Lingus. It’s a year in which our strategy in connecting Ireland with the world has paid dividends so we’ve seen major growth in our long-haul network and major growth in the number of connecting passengers at Dublin Airport who are moving between our short-haul and our long-haul networks.

Our profits rose by 19 per cent versus the previous year with revenues up 14 per cent. The third quarter is the most important quarter for airlines in the northern hemisphere because it contains the busy summer months, so we’re very pleased that it went extremely well. Customers like the value we offer. The results were characterised by growth, both in longhaul and short-haul.

Q: Could you tell me Q: In October you launched

Q: Q3 was Aer Lingus’ strongest quarter since the start of the recession. What was behind this?

A: The results were characterised by growth both in long-haul and short-haul passengers.

your new business class service, could you tell me about that?

A: We launched the concept in October but the actual roll out of the product will be complete by next April. It involves

Declan Kearney, Director of Communications, Aer Lingus

InBUSINESS | Editor’s Choice Awards 2014

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a full refitting of our entire business cabins, a full upgrading of our in-flight entertainment, new menus designed by culinary experts from around Ireland with a focus on Irish product. We have brand new seats in the cabin which are full lie flat seats. The service has proven to be very popular, with customers already booking for 2015.

about plans to expand your transatlantic operations and short-haul services for next summer?

A: Next summer will again be another year of significant transatlantic growth for us. In 2013, we grew our transatlantic operation by about 15 per cent. This year we’ll have grown it by in excess of 20 per cent by the end of year. In 2015, we want to add another 18 or 19 per cent capacity into that market so that will involve the growth of our San Francisco service, which will increase in frequency from five times a week to seven times weekly. We’ll also increase the frequency on our Orlando service, we’ll be putting a bigger aircraft onto our ShannonBoston service and most importantly, we’ll be adding

a new destination with a Dublin to Washington DC service commencing in May.

Q: With Christoph Mueller due to step down as CEO next May, would you say it marks a significantly new chapter for the airline? A: I think it’s a very good point from which to appoint a new leader. Very often in the airline business, leadership changes coincide with some sort of crisis. It’s a function of the nature of our industry, which is prone to all kinds of external economic shock factors. In this situation, there will be an orderly handover. We have a very successful chief executive, who has been over five years in the role, handing over a very healthy and profitable business. In that sense, it’s quite a good time to hand over the reins and we look forward to announcing a new leader between now and May, when Christoph is due to depart. Q: Your response to winning InBUSINESS Editor’s Choice Business Airline of the Year Award?

A: We’re delighted to be recognised for the award. We focus very heavily on our business customers and it’s good to be recognised by the business community. 45

05/12/2014 12:44

low fuel prices, always.

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05/12/2014 10:50

BEST BRAND APPLEGREEN

A Brand Built on the CUSTOMERS’ NEEDS Celebrating its 22nd year in operation, the Applegreen brand continues to grow from strength to strength, as Joe Barrett, Chief Operations Officer, explains. Q: Could you give me some background on Applegreen in Ireland as well as its expansion into the UK and US market? A: Now in our 22nd year

of operation, Petrogas Global Ltd trading as Applegreen, Ireland’s leading independent forecourt retailer, continues to expand in size as well as branching into new business ventures. Since its inception in 1992, we have successfully opened over 85 service stations across Ireland, 50 in the UK and two in the US. We currently employ over 2,000 people and we continue to grow rapidly since the Applegreen brand was established in 2004. Q: How has 2014 been for Applegreen and what is your outlook for 2015? A: 2014 saw Applegreen

expand into the B2B market of Dealer Business and Fuel Card. The Applegreen Dealer offer provides a wide range of benefits to retailers when moving to an Applegreen brand and fuel supply. These benefits include a competitive and guaranteed fuel margin, significant brand investment in the forecourt and an industry-leading and award-winning loyalty programme.

In early 2014 we launched our own fuel card called ‘LowFuelcard’. This offers those who use a minimum of 500 litres of fuel per month lower fuel prices than any other current fuel provider. Customers can also collect Applegreen reward points with their LowFuelcard purchases. Applegreen are looking positively towards 2015 and have exciting plans for expansion within all the estate. Q: What would you say has been behind the success of the Applegreen brand? A: From the beginning

it was recognised that Applegreen’s staff would be their biggest asset. It was clear that attention to customer service and customer comfort would be the mainstay of the Applegreen business. With our innovative Applegreen brand, it continues to set standards within the forecourt industry. Rewarding our customers is also very important, so in November 2011 we launched our rewards programme, the first of its kind in the Irish forecourt industry. Its main aim was to ultimately thank customers for their loyalty in a competitive marketplace but also to communicate with them

InBUSINESS | Editor’s Choice Awards 2014

047 Editors Choice 2014_Applegreen.indd 47

and understand how the Applegreen brand could better meet their needs. Q: How important is your collaboration with international brands such as Costa Coffee, Subway, and Burger King? A: Applegreen are Burger

King, Costa Coffee and Subway franchisees, and the company is continually looking for business opportunities to partner with the Applegreen brand. Customers respond well to internationally recognised brands and also to our own brand café The Bakewell. Applegreen continually strive to give all its customers the best coffee on the road and high quality food products at a value price. Q: Could you tell me about Applegreen’s expansion plans which were announced earlier in the year? A: August 2014 saw

Applegreen open their newest Motorway Service Area situated at Junction 14 on the M11 in Wicklow, and announced the creation of 360 new full time jobs in Ireland. The jobs will be created through the development of six new service areas in 2014 and 2015 at a total investment by the company of a30 million.

Joe Barrett, Applegreen COO

Q: Your response to winning Best Brand at the 2014 InBUSINESS Editor’s Choice Awards? A: We are delighted to

win the InBUSINESS Editior’s Choice Award for Best Brand. It means a lot to be recognised and rewarded for the effort we put into our brand every day, in every part of the business. We continually strive to improve our services, food offerings and customer experience all the while maintaining our ‘low fuel prices, always’ commitment, all of which contributes to the make-up of the brand.

05/12/2014 12:45

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04/12/2014 16:31

BEST SUPPORT TO SMES INTERTRADE IRELAND

Stimulating Growth Across the Island Margaret Hearty, InterTradeIreland Acting CEO, outlines the organisation’s highlights from 2014 and the support they are offering businesses.

ccording to some cautious reports, both north and south of the border, things are slowly improving on the economic front, with businesses reporting increased trade and a lightening of the load. There’s no doubt that cross border trade development agency InterTradeIreland has played its part in this positive movement and in 2014, the organisation has seen a large increase in the demand for their help. “From an organisational perspective, we’re very happy with 2014,” explains acting CEO Margaret Hearty. “We measure our success based on the success of the companies we work with. So far this year, it’s been a bumper year in terms of the level of demand for our programmes and services. From that we would interpret that we’re giving companies the type of support they need to grow and develop.”

Throughout the past 12 months, InterTradeIreland has been respsonding to demand whilst organising a number of significant events and conferences, overseeing the expansion of their public tendering programme and the launch of a new consortia building service for small companies. 2014 has also seen them introduce the concept of business ambassadors – identifying 100 companies from the thousands they assist, that they wanted to acknowledge right across the island as exemplars. “It’s always very difficult to choose,” Hearty recalls. “We held two events – one in Dublin and one in Belfast – where we acknowledged the success of these companies. We assist companies in two main areas: trade and innovation. Speaking at the Dublin event was Java Republic, a Dublinbased company who we supported through our Acumen programme. They saw the opportunity to sell their coffee in Northern

2014 has also seen them introduce the concept of business ambassadors – identifying 100 companies from the thousands they assist, that they wanted to acknowledge right across the island as exemplars.” InBUSINESS | Editor’s Choice Awards 2014

049 Editors Choice 2014_Intertrade.indd 49

Ireland and we provided financial assistance towards employing personnel to build their business. That has been a game changer.” Hearty also notes the recent success of Cavan-based GEM Oils, a family-owned business which received help from InterTradeIreland via their public tender programme to improve their knowledge and skills. As a result, they won a contract with Translink, Northern Ireland’s bus and train operators. She also mentions Kelly Brothers, a construction company based in Warrenpoint in Co Down. Having been significantly impacted by the downturn, Kelly Brothers received assistance through InterTradeIreland’s Fusion programme which linked them with Sligo IT. Through this partnership they designed a low energy modular house, and have won significant business as a result. Looking towards 2015, the organisation will launch a new service based around providing access to finance for SMEs, teaching them about the different types of financial services they can utilise to stimulate growth, from crowdfunding to equity products and invoice funding. There’s

Margaret Hearty, InterTradeIreland Acting CEO

no doubt it will be a positive year – their latest quarterly business monitor of 750 companies north and south of the border showed a broad based recovery – 45 per cent of companies surveyed experienced growth, a figure double that of last year. “At InterTradeIreland we see innovation and exporting as a means by which to grow new business in an all-island economy. We firmly believe as an organisation that small businesses are at the heart of the island economy, and what we try and do is give them the skillset, expertise and capability that typically small companies find difficult to access. The results are telling us that what we’re doing is right, and we’re going to continue to do more of that in 2015,” Hearty concludes.

05/12/2014 12:46

SPECIAL MERIT AWARD eircom – PARTNERSHIP WITH SPECIAL OLYMPICS IRELAND

Building on a SPECIAL PARTNERSHIP As eircom approaches a 30 year milestone of its relationship with Special Olympics Ireland next year, we spoke to eircom’s Carolan Lennon about the benefits of this special partnership.

arolan Lennon, Managing Director of eircom Wholesale, has eircom Group responsibility for the development and the implementation of eircom’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy. This is not simply an additional role for a busy woman – Lennon has a genuine passion for CSR and fundamentally believes it is important that companies have a clear, meaningful and coherent CSR strategy, delivered by a clear activation plan. This is not just pragmatism on Lennon’s part – she is convinced that in today’s highly competitive business climate, genuine and engaging CSR is something that can set a company apart. Her view is that while CSR has become something that all stakeholders expect, more importantly having the right CSR strategy that fits the organisation and its values can have a hugely positive impact on a company’s staff – not to mention customers – and this is what she has seen for herself in eircom over the last 12 months. For Lennon, putting a large focus on having a positive impact on society

050 Editors Choice 2014_eircom.indd 50

and supporting good causes ensures that eircom plays a strong role in being a good corporate citizen. Lennon has immense experience in CSR: before joining eircom she served on the board of the Vodafone Ireland Foundation and is currently a member of the Council of Patrons for Special Olympics Ireland. She has led eircom’s relentless drive to achieve unprecedented support for Special Olympics Ireland over the last year, and the planning for 2015. She believes more could, and should, be done and recently recruited Michelle Toner as her CSR manager to support her in developing eircom’s CSR strategy, to reach the level of ambition she believes eircom has. eircom’s CSR strategy really fits the organisation – whose job is enabling and facilitating people to do things better and live their lives as easily and simply as possible. eircom is about helping people to connect, using eircom technology in their homes, businesses and communities, and making their lives easier in the process. From a CSR perspective, the central tenet to any initiative eircom is involved in is enabling people to be the best that they can

Carolan Lennon, Managing Director of eircom Wholesale

be and to reach their true potential. And everything within the eircom CSR strategy has the Special Olympics Ireland ethos at its core – their very essence is about helping people realise their potential – so it is the perfect fit.

EIRCOM & SOI eircom’s relationship with Special Olympics Ireland has been the main focus of the Group’s CSR strategy over the last number of years and, in the last 29 years, eircom’s financial commitment alone has been in the region of a15 million. However, in the last 18 months eircom has also actively supported Dress for Success, an organisation

that helps women from disadvantaged areas get back into the workforce. This project is also aligned with eircom’s core strategy to help people fulfil their potential and be the best they can be. They hope that the relationship will grow and strengthen in the same way as eircom’s relationship did with Special Olympics Ireland. Commenting on the relationship with Special Olympics Ireland, Lennon said: “Despite the economic backdrop and huge commercial challenges over the last number of years, our relationship with, and commitment to, Special Olympics Ireland has remained

InBUSINESS | Editor’s Choice Awards 2014

05/12/2014 12:32

SPECIAL MERIT AWARD eircom – PARTNERSHIP WITH SPECIAL OLYMPICS IRELAND

steadfast – at a time when all companies are under pressure to curtail or postpone charitable giving. The longevity of the partnership with Special Olympics – and the commitment on both sides - has ensured that this unique relationship between two Irish organisations is stronger than ever.”

PARTNERSHIP As they approach the 30 year milestone of their relationship, Carolan said: “next year marks the 30th year of our partnership with Special Olympics Ireland – the longest running charitable partnership in Ireland. It is a relationship that has grown beyond all recognition – developed, strengthened and changed with the times. Approaching that milestone, the relationship between us has never been stronger. It’s a strategic, long term commitment that is delivering tangible benefits, with activity and results increasing year-onyear. Management and staff of both organisations work seamlessly together every day, in the background, with one clear aim: helping Special Olympics Ireland achieve its mission – by enabling everyone with an intellectual disability in Ireland to participate in a sport of their choice.” Matt English, Managing Director of Special Olympics Ireland, said: “eircom’s long term commitment has been crucial in helping our development. We know we can rely on eircom, thanks to our rolling four-year contracts, which matches

Special Olympics Ireland’s four-year Olympic cycle, and enables us to think strategically, plan and implement a long-term, cohesive strategy. We simply couldn’t have done what we have without eircom’s unwavering commitment. Our partnership means we can plan - knowing we have the resources and support to deliver our strategy something quite unique for any charity in Ireland, especially these days”. At its simplest, eircom supports Special Olympics Ireland in four principal ways; in a partnership that delivers national awareness and fundraising: • an annual financial contribution • technological support (in 1985 that was about landlines; today it’s about mobiles, high speed broadband, web support) • marketing support for initiatives throughout the year • employee engagement and volunteering eircom has the skills and the technology to help raise awareness of Special Olympic Ireland’s role and remit and carry out that role in the most efficient and cost effective way, to maximise fundraising and call for volunteers countrywide. Special Olympics Ireland is committed to delivering services to athletes in its clubs all around the country, increasing its reach and athlete participation and developing activities for anyone with an intellectual disability. eircom helps Special Olympics Ireland do just that; providing

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financial support and encouraging and facilitating staff participation in volunteering and fundraising. The company also offers practical assistance through technological and logistics advice and support from eircom’s experts on the ground.

IS IT WORKING? According to Lennon, “most people don’t realise that Special Olympics Ireland is the strongest Special Olympics organisation in the world – something we should all be very proud of. We have significantly higher participation in Ireland, at 30 per cent, than any other country, which is remarkable. “We know that our partnership benefits Special Olympics Ireland in

many practical ways, including enhanced communication. People also don’t realise the scale of Special Olympics Ireland or its number of stakeholders: 9,355 athletes; 26,457 volunteers; 385 clubs, and 9,000 registered family members – not to mention supporters, media and the public. Our technology enables Special Olympics Ireland to communicate effectively and efficiently – through the provision of high speed broadband, mobile phones, web support and by spreading the word, through eircom public awareness campaigns, customer bills, social media and through eircom’s employee base”. Lennon is convinced there are huge benefits to eircom too - as some 250 people from eircom got involved in a whole host of initiatives this year. “Like all successful partnerships”, Carolan concluded, “this works for both sides and together we are stronger.”

05/12/2014 12:32

Working together for a brighter tomorrow

IPB Insurance is Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only wholly Irish-owned insurance company and indigenous mutual insurer. Our unique position in the Irish market place means we are committed to giving back to society towards helping to build a better Ireland. We have an absolute commitment to making a difference in society, in partnership with our Members, clients and their communities.

In 2012, IPB made corporate history by being the 1st company to issue a social dividend to Irish society. Since launching the social dividend model, IPB has committed k8 million to fund our Corporate Social Engagement (CSE) initiatives. At IPB we believe that by working together we can create a brighter future for our Members and for our stakeholders, the Irish people.

Working to make a difference | www.ipb.ie Irish Public Bodies Mutual Insurances Ltd. trading as IPB Insurance is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

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For business in the UK, IPB Insurance is authorised by the Central Bank of Ireland and subject to limited regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority.

04/12/2014 16:28 04/12/2014 10:22

BUSINESSMAN OF THE YEAR RONAN FOLEY OF IPB INSURANCE

A NEW WAY OF DOING BUSINESS Ronan Foley, Chief Executive of IPB Insurance, is a firm believer in integrating a unique social engagement model as a core strategy for business. He tells InBUSINESS that a successful company is one that delivers both commercially and socially.

ince joining IPB Insurance as chief executive over three years ago, Ronan Foley has introduced a range of strategic and operational changes, including the introduction of a social dividend of a5 million to Irish society on behalf of IPB’s members in 2012 (a corporate first in Ireland), followed by further multimillion social dividends issued since then. This social dividend funds IPB’s programme of Corporate Social Engagement (CSE), making the company one of the leading corporate donors in Ireland today. This year, Foley has continued to show innovative thought leadership in the area of next generation business strategy, resulting in record financial performance over the past three years. This, coupled with the unique social dividend concept, has earned him the InBUSINESS Editor’s Choice Businessman of the Year Award.

Q: Where did the idea for issuing a Social Dividend come from? A: If a company is doing

well, and it can afford to give a commercial dividend, then why not opt for a social dividend? I thought we could bring it a step further and do two things:

Firstly, to commit the business, if successful, to a commercial and a social dividend and, secondly, to measure its impact in our combined annual stakeholder report. I believe that what we’re doing here is making a significant positive social impact and at the same time creating a more successful sustainable business model. Q: How has adopting CSE as a core strategy changed IPB’s business? A: Since we launched this

social dividend model along with our CSE framework as a core strategy, we’ve enjoyed the best results on record over the past three years. Part of that is because, I believe, customers are looking for different things now; they don’t just want to buy from us, they want to buy into us. The CSE element sort of redefines the company. We’re a strong Irish business and we underwrite insurance, but it doesn’t mean we’re defined as an insurance company. Employees need to see beyond that, and they do. They have to see that our success impacts positively in the wider society. Q: So, being good is good for business?

InBUSINESS | Editor’s Choice Awards 2014

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A: Absolutely, and it’s

okay to say it’s good for business. From our own perspective we have recorded the best results in each of the past three years in tandem with a new strategic approach that anchors our members at the centre of the business and places society at the heart of our wider corporate goals. You only have to look at the expenditure every year on CSR. The CECP (Committee Encouraging Corporate Philanthropy) carry out research every year and the results are very interesting. They measure 261 of the largest companies and there has been a 64 per cent increase in giving since 2010, growing by more than 10 per cent for 52 per cent of those surveyed. Companies that have increased giving by more than 10 per cent since 2010 also increased median revenues by 11 per cent over the three year period and pre-tax profits increased for 59 per cent of those companies. So clearly being good is also good for business. Q: Your response to winning the InBUSINESS Editor’s Choice Businessman of the Year Award? A: It was a bit of a shock.

Ronan Foley, Chief Executive, IPB Insurance

I like getting on and doing things and then talking about the results. I’m fairly driven and focused and see everything in three year slots. It’s been an incredible three years. We’ve bought a business, sold a business, taken 127 staff across and put them under one roof, moved premises, achieved the results we have in terms of growth and profitability and issued a social dividend. 2015, 2016, 2017 is about the next phase and we’ll hit that ground running in January. It says a lot about the Chamber that they’re looking for, and indeed recognising, innovation and solutions elsewhere. It’s great recognition for IPB, the staff, the board, and the decisions they’ve made to get this sort of accolade. It’s a great honour.

05/12/2014 11:03

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05/12/2014 12:31

BUSINESSWOMAN OF THE YEAR SIOBHÁN TALBOT OF GLANBIA

THE DAIRY CHIEF WITH AMBITION Leading a a3.3 billion company with 5,000 employees spread across 29 countries, it could be said that Siobhán Talbot, Chief Executive of Glanbia, is the most influential woman in Irish business today. We caught up with the Kilkenny native to hear how her year has been.

ust one year in her role as CEO of the food and dairy giant, profits and revenues are up, and there is strong sentiment among investors. Having been with the company for 22 years – her most recent role being that of group finance chief – Siobhán Talbot is now moving the company forward into the fastgrowing nutritional foods and sports supplements market. Glanbia’s recent acquisition of Isopure, a US sports nutrition business, for a153 million, is evidence of the company’s ambitions within the sector. In 2014, Talbot has shown great leadership in corporate strategy, management tactics and

farming politics among other things, to earn her the InBUSINESS Editor’s Choice Businesswoman of the Year Award. Q: How has your first year been at the helm of Glanbia? A: It has been an

interesting and exciting year working with the Glanbia team. The first year has flown by. With our wide portfolio of businesses in global markets I have been travelling a lot, meeting colleagues and staff across our business units, meeting customers and also investors. Importantly, one of my goals for the first year was to engage with as many employees as possible so I’m delighted to have had the opportunity to directly meet over 3,000 of our 5,000 team members – in seven countries, across four continents. Everywhere I went I was greeted with strong positivity and enthusiasm which really made the year very Siobhán Talbot, Chief Executive of Glanbia enjoyable. InBUSINESS | Editor’s Choice Awards 2014

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Q: How have you found the transition from Group Finance Chief to CEO? A: As Group FD I also had

responsibility for strategy, so the FD role was quite broad which made the transition that much easier. Also, as you know I took over from John Moloney, and having worked closely with him over many years, along with his support when I was appointed as MD designate, it helped smooth the way. We are very much a team effort in Glanbia and my colleagues on the executive team have a strong strategic input and their support has been huge and much appreciated. Q: What would you attribute the strong company performance in 2014 to? A: We report our full year

next February, however as we said in an interim management statement in October the performance for the first nine months of the year has been good. We have strong capabilities across the group, ranging from our core dairy ingredient and consumer facing businesses and we continued to execute our strategy in 2014. We are particularly pleased to acquire the Nutrimino and

Isopure brands as part of our performance nutrition business and to announce value enhancing organic investments both in our global ingredients business in the USA and our Irish agribusiness and consumer products business. This was driven primarily by our Global Performance Nutrition division, while our Global Ingredients and our other businesses performed in line with expectations. Q: What advice would you have for young, ambitious people looking to make it to boardroom level? A: Whether it’s to the

boardroom or to progress in any form, my advice is to be ambitious and keen to show you are capable of taking on that extra bit of responsibility. Plan for the next job all the time, don’t sit back and wait for somebody to knock on the door. Q: Your response to winning InBUSINESS Editor’s Choice Businesswoman of the Year? A: It’s an honour to receive

the InBusiness Editor’s Choice Award on behalf of the Glanbia team, as I see this as an acknowledgement of the immense depth and ambition of the entire Glanbia organisation.

05/12/2014 14:28

COMPANY OF THE YEAR CRH

FIRM WITH A SOLID FOUNDATION The country’s most valuable listed company, CRH, is focused on returning to growth across its operations.

RH, a FTSE 100 and Fortune 500 company, is a diversified international building materials group headquartered in Ireland. The company manufactures and distributes a diverse range of products servicing the breadth of construction needs. The Group is a leading international player in its industry with operations in 35 countries worldwide. It is the largest building

materials company in North America, a regional leader in Europe and has a growing presence in the Asian economies of India and China. In 2013, CRH subsidiary companies employed approximately 76,000 people at over 3,400 operating locations and generated sales of a18 billion. CRH’s strategic vision is to be a responsible international leader in building materials delivering superior and sustained shareholder returns. Sustainability and corporate social responsibility concepts are integral components of the Group’s performance and growth strategy, and CRH has been ranked among sector leaders by respected socially responsible investment agencies for its sustainability and corporate social responsibility performance. Albert Manifold, Chief Executive

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2014 saw a new incoming Chief Executive in Albert Manifold, a 16 year veteran of CRH. Albert has been on the company’s Board of Directors for over five years and was the Group’s Chief Operating Officer prior to his appointment as Chief Executive. CRH’s financial performance in 2014 improved in Ireland and throughout the Group and the company expects an increase in profits (EBITDA) of approximately 10 per cent compared to 2013. This profit growth is based on a strong operating leverage throughout the Group, underpinning improved margins and returns. Furthermore, CRH continues to have a sector leading balance sheet and with a strong cash generation capability, its net debt is expected to reduce by approximately a0.5 billion compared to the prior year. In 2014, the Group also completed several new acquisitions, amounting to around a170 million. The Group is very well positioned to take advantage of further value-creating acquisition opportunities across its portfolio in the future as the global economy recovers.

Roadstone, Waterford bypass bridge

Irish Cement’s Platin Works

InBUSINESS | Editor’s Choice Awards 2014

05/12/2014 12:47

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05/12/2014 10:54