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NewsSearch on for emerging exporter of the year
Search on for emerging exporter of the year
06.08.2010
An awards scheme recognising the achievements of micro-enterprises that have successfully broken into export markets over the last year was launched today.
Irish Exporters Association (IEA) has linked up with the 35 County and City Enterprise Boards in the search for the Emerging Exporter of the Year 2010, which is seen as a key category in the National Export Industry Awards.
According to the IEA, the competition recognises the outstanding achievements and innovative activity of small businesses tackling overseas markets for the first time. The awards search will conclude on 25 November 2010 with a gala ceremony, when the Taoiseach will present the category winner, as well as the overall Exporter of the Year.
‘’The small business sector is the back bone of the economy, and can provide the next wave of export –led growth for the Irish economy,” said Michael Tunney, chairman of the CEB Network, speaking at the launch of the awards.
“Small business owners must be nurtured and assisted in their early exports efforts and in the CEB network we are confident the Emerging Export Award will help this process, highlighting best practice for others to follow. ‘’
John Whelan, CEO of the Irish Exporters Association, said the awards will assist companies in generating export-led growth for their businesses. “It is the only sustainable strategy to secure long term stable economic growth,” he said.
Last year’s winner in the emerging exporter category, Kerry-based food manufacturer, Garryvoe Foods, produces a wide range of high quality organic certified fresh soups, fresh sauces, fresh juices and pasta ready meals. The company has pioneered its own eco-friendly packaging, which is bio-degradable, recyclable and has a low carbon footprint.
As well as supplying all the major retail outlets in Ireland, its BRC (British Retail Consortium) Global Standards for Food accreditation has allowed Garryvoe to break into the European market, where it has built up a customer base that includes giants like MonoPrix and Carrefour in France, as well as key organic stores in Holland.
Other previous winners of the award have included Ballytherm, which manufactures green energy insulation products, and Dublin-based gift card company, Card Commerce.
For further information about the awards, please visit the Irish Exporters Association website.
Pictured: Michael Tunney, chairman of the CEB Network, at the launch of the Emerging Exporter of the Year 2010
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