Wicklow Businesses Glenhaven Foods and Ventac Nominated for Export Awards

Two prominent businesses from County Wicklow, Glenhaven Foods and Ventac, have been shortlisted for the prestigious Export Industry Awards organized by the Irish Exporters Association (IEA). This recognition underscores the companies' contributions to the Irish export sector amidst a rapidly evolving global market.

Glenhaven Foods, established over 35 years ago by the Cahill family, specializes in chicken products and is nominated in the Private Irish Business category. Ventac, based in Blessington, offers acoustic solutions for the commercial vehicle and industrial noise sectors, earning nominations in both the Export Innovation and Manufacturing Exporter categories.

According to Simon McKeever, CEO of the IEA, the Export Industry Awards celebrate remarkable achievements within Ireland’s export community. "I would like to congratulate all shortlisted companies on this outstanding accomplishment. The companies have not only demonstrated exceptional innovation and resilience but have also set a benchmark for excellence in the export sector," McKeever stated during the announcement.

The awards ceremony, where category winners and the Overall Exporter of the Year will be revealed, is set to take place on October 3 at the Dublin Royal Convention Centre. This event is anticipated to draw significant attention from industry leaders and government officials alike.

In addition to the awards, Glenhaven and Ventac will participate in an IEA Masterclass conducted by Trinity Executive Education on June 16. This initiative is designed to support exporting companies in developing adaptive strategies for the fast-changing international markets. The masterclass aims to equip participants with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of global trade.

The recognition of Glenhaven Foods and Ventac highlights a broader trend within the Irish export sector, which has shown resilience despite global challenges such as supply chain disruptions and fluctuating demand. According to a report by the Central Statistics Office (CSO), Irish goods exports reached €15.3 billion in 2024, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 6.2%. This growth is attributed in part to the innovation and adaptability of companies like Glenhaven and Ventac, which continue to find new markets and maintain high standards of quality.

Furthermore, this acknowledgment aligns with the Irish government’s objectives to expand the export base and enhance the country’s competitiveness on the global stage. The government’s Export Growth Strategy aims to increase exports by 50% by 2025, emphasizing the importance of supporting businesses in their efforts to enter new markets.

In conclusion, the nominations of Glenhaven Foods and Ventac for the Export Industry Awards not only highlight their individual successes but also reflect the dynamic nature of the Irish export sector. As the awards ceremony approaches, the industry will be watching closely to see how these businesses leverage their strengths in a competitive international landscape. The future outlook remains optimistic, with continued support from government initiatives and the IEA aimed at fostering a robust export environment.