The Guaranteed Irish Business Awards 2026, proudly sponsored by PTSB
The 2026 Guaranteed Irish Business Awards, took place on March 5th at The Dublin Royal Convention Centre. Now in their fifth year, the annual awards shine a spotlight on Ireland’s leading businesses that are committed to supporting jobs, communities and provenance. Insomnia, Irish coffee chain, took home the prestigious - Business of the Year award, while the esteemed Guaranteed Irish Special Recognition Award 2026 was presented to President of the GAA, Jarlath Burns.
Over 400 guests enjoyed a delicious meal crafted from locally sourced ingredients, supplied by several Guaranteed Irish members. The evening was hosted by Irish TV and radio personality Marty Whelan, who kept the crowd entertained with his personable style, warmth, and well-known charm.
A special highlight of the evening was Irish poet Stephen James Smith, who opened the ceremony by delivering a bespoke poem written for the occasion, reflecting on the history and mission of Guaranteed Irish. A Fashion and Beauty quarter added a glamorous touch to the evening where stylist Edel Kinnane chatted with guests on the green carpet, as attendees shared their glamorous looks and the Irish designers they chose to wear on the night.
This year’s award saw the introduction of new award categories and their winners — Small Business of the Year, Donore Credit Union, and Energy and Utilities, Activ8 Solar Energies.
An independent panel of distinguished industry leaders from names including Matheson, An Post, Musgrave, PTSB, Viatel Technology Group and FBD Insurance, had the tough task of shortlisting a total of 84 companies, after whittling down hundreds of entries.
Brid O’Connell, CEO Guaranteed Irish, commented; “Now in its fifth year, the Guaranteed Irish Business Awards continue to showcase the very best of Irish enterprise. Businesses that support each other's supply chains, continuously innovate, and are deeply committed to supporting jobs, communities and provenance. This year’s winners, from Insomnia as Business of the Year, Ballymore in Construction to The Smooth Company in the beauty category, the winners demonstrate the scale of ambition and impact that exists across our membership and within Irish business today”.
Speaking to the Awards, Patrick Farrell, Chief Retail Banking Officer at PTSB, said: Speaking to the Awards, Patrick Farrell, Chief Retail Banking Officer at PTSB, said: “Guaranteed Irish continues to champion the strength, innovation, and resilience of Irish businesses at both local and international levels. As a bank dedicated exclusively to the Irish market, PTSB is honoured to partner once again with the Guaranteed Irish team to celebrate the businesses that play such a vital role in supporting communities, driving economic growth, and showcasing Irish excellence on a global stage. I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to all of the winners this year. Their achievements reflect the exceptional talent, ambition, and commitment that define Irish enterprise. It is a privilege to recognise and celebrate the positive impact these businesses are making through providing local employment, community development, and forward‑looking innovation.”
Guaranteed Irish Business Awards 2026 Winners: Click here
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