Unitec Shortlisted for Three National Technology Awards at Tech Excellence Awards 2026
Unitec IT Solutions has been shortlisted in three national categories at the Tech Excellence Awards 2026, recognising the company’s excellence across managed services, marketing leadership, and workplace culture. Unitec has been named a finalist in the following categories: Managed Services Company of the Year Marketing Excellence Award Best Place to Work The Tech Excellence Awards celebrate organisations that demonstrate outstanding innovation, service delivery, governance and positive impact within
Kieran Walsh Named Business Director of the Year at PBHJ Awards
Cork Celebrates as Kieran Walsh, National Beauty Distribution Triumphs at Beauty, Hair & Spa Awards 2026 There was cause for celebration in Cork as Kieran Walsh of National Beauty Distributionwas announced as a winner of Business Director of the Year at the highly anticipated Beauty, Hair & Spa Awards 2026, which took place on 19th April at the InterContinental Dublin. Bringing together the very best of the Irish beauty, hair and spa industries to recognise excellence in business,
Irish Blood Transfusion Service - National Appeal for Blood
Blood supply hits lowest level this year The IBTS is asking blood donors to answer its call to attend donation clinics this week as blood stocks are at a critical level after the long bank holiday weekend. “As of this morning, we have just over 2 days supply of O positive and just over 3 days for other key blood groups. We have contacted the hospitals to advise that the stock levels are very low and we will be actively managing stock to ensure blood is available for those who need it most,” said Barry
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Springboard Communications appoints Tom Fitzpatrick as Director following continued growth
Springboard Communications, the award-winning independent Irish communications agency, has appointed former Irish Examiner editor Tom Fitzpatrick as Director, further strengthening its senior leadership team following a sustained period of growth. In his new role, Tom will provide senior strategic counsel to clients, advising organisations on reputation management, navigating complex communications challenges and supporting how they engage with media and key stakeholders. Tom brings more than 20 years of
Frits Potgieter Appointed CEO as The Chesway Collection Connects The Montenotte and The Wilder Townhouse
A new chapter for one of Ireland’s most distinctive independent hospitality portfolios has been announced with the appointment of Frits Potgieter as CEO of The Chesway Collection, the family-owned group behind The Montenotte, Cork, The Woodland Suite Experience, Cork and The Wilder Townhouse, Dublin. Potgieter brings more than two decades of international luxury hospitality experience to the role. Originally from South Africa, he has held senior leadership roles with The Doyle Collection and The Red
IEA Life Sciences Exporters Forum Comes to Cork
The Irish Exporters Association (IEA) today announces that it will host a Life Sciences Exporters Forum on Tuesday, 12th May 2026 at Fota Island Resort, Co. Cork. This is the first of two Forums which the IEA will run in conjunction with Aramex and Biocar in 2026. Running from 08:30 to 13:00, the half-day event brings together exporters, researchers, industry leaders, and innovators from across Ireland’s life sciences sector for a morning of expert insight, open discussion, and peer connection. The second
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Cork Chamber calls for end to disruption and road blockages impacting businesses
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has expressed concern about the ongoing fuel protests and their impact on businesses, and urged those involved to engage in discussion through the appropriate channels and end current disruption immediately. Cork Chamber CEO, Conor Healy, said, “Ongoing protests and road blockages are having a significant impact on business operations, commuters and the general public across the country. The situation has escalated considerably over the past 24 hours in Cork,
MyWealthManagement welcomes two financial services companies to the Group
Group on track to have €750 million in client assets under advice (AUA) by the end of Q2 2026 Current deal pipeline targets AUA of €1.5 billion by year end MyWealthManagement (MWM) Group, one of Ireland’s fastest-growing wealth management and mortgage brokerage firms has announced expansion plans. This follows the group’s recent acquisition of Inspire Financial’s book of business in December 2025 followed by a merger with Financial Innovations in March marking the successful completion of four deals to
New Start and Finish Line for 2026 Analog Devices Cork City Marathon
A new start and finish line at Grand Parade has been announced for the 2026 Analog Devices Cork City Marathon. Under the new plan, all three races - the Marathon, Half Marathon and 10K – will also finish outside the library on Grand Parade. The full marathon will start on Grand Parade, the 10k will start on the South Mall, while the half marathon will continue to begin on Monahan Road. Race organisers at Cork City Council designed the changes to improve safety, increase capacity, and create a stronger
European hat-trick for TOTEM
Waterford and Cork based branding agency TOTEM has won Silver at the Transform Awards Europe 2026 for its branding of Media Connect, Virgin Media Ireland’s new wholesale fibre business unit. For the 3rd year in a row, TOTEM has won at these prestigious European branding awards, showing consistency at the highest level. Among 196 shortlisted projects from across Europe, only three are Irish-led, underlining the scale of TOTEM’s achievement. In 2023, Virgin Media Ireland began a bold strategic move - to
Always Wanted To… Hike or Bike? Now Is Your Moment.
We all have that list. The things we’ve always meant to do. The climb, the cycle, the challenge that’s been sitting there, waiting. This year, Breakthrough Cancer Research is inviting you to turn that “Always Wanted To…” into something powerful. Whether you come as an individual, a group of friends, or a team of colleagues, you can take on an unforgettable challenge while helping to fund life-saving cancer research here in Ireland.Always Wanted To… Climb Croagh Patrick? Join us on Saturday, April 18th,
ETC Announces Continued Growth and Expansion with Senior Promotions
Cork and Kerry based communications and events agency ETC has announced the promotion of two team members as part of its ongoing expansion. Róisín Kivlehan has been elevated to Client Director, while Nicole Murphy assumes the role of Social Media & Events Manager. ETC, which works with leading brands and organisations across festivals, hospitality, tourism, arts, culture, and entertainment, provides strategic communications, storytelling, digital marketing, and event production to help clients connect
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Vital refurbishment completed at the iconic 170-year-old Firkin Crane
A vital and long-overdue refurbishment has secured the future of one of Cork City’s most distinctive historic landmarks, the Firkin Crane. Roof works have been completed on the 170-year-old Firkin Crane, the protected Shandon building that serves as Ireland’s first dedicated dance house. The project safeguards the long-term stability and weatherproofing of the structure, ensuring it can continue to operate as a national resource for dance. In 2022, the organisation rebranded as Dance Cork Firkin
Qualcomm Named Overall Winner at Cork Company of the Year Awards 2026
-A standout night for Cork’s business community, recognising the vision and innovation driving the region’s next chapter-Cork Chamber has announced the winners of the Cork Company of the Year Awards 2026, with Qualcomm Technologies selected as both the International Category Winner and the Overall Cork Company of the Year 2026 at a prestigious event held this evening in Cork City Hall. Now in its third decade, this flagship Cork Chamber initiative, delivered in association with KPMG Ireland and media
Cork’s Next Chapter: From Ambition to Delivery
Cork has grown into a significant economic engine in its own right. Buoyed by renewed confidence, the region is shaping Ireland’s economic future. Cork’s business community is stronger than before and ready for what comes next. Supporting that ambition with decisive action and timely delivery will be crucial. That was the central message from attendees at the Cork Chamber Annual Dinner 2026, sponsored by AIB, which brought together over 1,000 business leaders, policymakers and key regional
Qualcomm investment set to strengthen Cork’s position as global technology hub
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has today welcomed the announcement of a further €125 million investment in its Cork operation, which will support the creation of approximately 300 additional roles and see the company’s workforce in Cork city grow to over 1,000 employees in the coming years. The latest phase of Qualcomm’s expansion represents a significant commitment to Cork and reflects the continued evolution of the company’s local operation since it established an engineering presence in
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Cork Chamber welcomes investment in Tyndall National Institute
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has welcomed the announcement of Cabinet approval for €100 million in funding to support the expansion of the Tyndall National Institute at University College Cork, describing it as a transformational investment in Ireland’s national research and innovation capability. Cork Chamber CEO, Conor Healy, said, “The funding announced today to support the expansion of the Tyndall National Institute represents a highly significant investment in Ireland’s deep-tech
Cork Chamber appointed Sustainable Development Goal Ambassador by Government
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has been appointed a Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Ambassador by the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment. Cork Chamber takes on the role following a successful term as SDG Champion for 2024 to 2025. Conor Healy, Cork Chamber CEO, welcomed the appointment: “Sustainability is at the core of all activities undertaken by Cork Chamber, guiding our member services, advocacy efforts and internal operations. We are delighted to accept the
Cork Chamber welcomes significant Quest Software expansion with new AI centre and jobs for Cork
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has welcomed the announcement by Quest Software that it is to establish a new Centre for Advanced AI Architecture in Cork, bringing significant new investment and high-quality jobs to the region. This development represents a strong endorsement of Cork as a leading location for innovation, talent and technology-driven enterprise. Cork Chamber CEO Conor Healy said, “Quest Software’s decision to grow its footprint in Cork is a strong vote of confidence in the
Acting now to build a future-ready business community
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, today launched its new Sustainability Strategy and Report. The publication sets out a clear framework to embed sustainability across the organisation and to support businesses in building a resilient, low-carbon and inclusive future for the Cork region. The strategy outlines Cork Chamber’s environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitments for the period 2025–2028, alongside transparent reporting on progress across carbon reduction, biodiversity,
Three Ireland Backs Fzin Coffee’s Mission and Next Stage of Growth Through Small Business Grant Award
Fzin Coffee has been selected as one of the winners of the Three Ireland Small Business Grant Award. This program recognises businesses in Ireland that demonstrate a clear purpose, strong foundations, and the potential for growth. The award includes generous financial support and best in class technology solutions to help strengthen operations and scale. Fzin Coffee is leading innovation in the Irish market with TÜV certified 4 Star OK Biobased and Home Compostable coffee pods, along with a wider range
WorkAbility Cork celebrates one year of empowering jobseekers with disabilities
Turning confidence into opportunity: 80 participants supported, 18 in employment, and 23 certified in accredited training WorkAbility Cork programme has marked its first anniversary, celebrating a year of transforming employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Delivered in collaboration between SECAD Partnership and Cork Chamber, the programme has supported 80 participants to gain new skills, confidence, and pathways toward meaningful employment. WorkAbility Cork supports employers and
Proofpoint Growth Underscores Cork’s Tech Strength
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has welcomed the announcement that Proofpoint will create up to 100 new roles at its Cork hub. Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber commented on the announcement, “Proofpoint’s decision to significantly expand its workforce in Cork is a powerful endorsement of our region’s standing as a smart, modern and connected location for global technology investment. The fact that many of these will be specialist roles, across data science and AI, speaks volumes about the
Collaboration and innovation will shape the future of financial services, Cork Financial Services Fo
Cork Chamber and the Cork Financial Services Forum hosted the Cork Financial Services Forum Annual Summit 2025, welcoming industry leaders, policymakers and innovators from across Ireland’s financial services sector. The summit has become an annual highlight of the financial services calendar, providing a platform for networking, collaboration and insight into the sector’s evolving landscape. There are 135,000 people employed in financial services in Ireland, with Cork and the broader South-West region
Fort2Fort Charity Cycle raises €24,152 for Cork causes
At a special presentation at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Little Island on October 15th, organisers of the annual Fort2Fort Charity Cycle announced that €24,152.00 was raised through this year’s event, bringing the total raised since the cycle’s inception in 2012 to almost €429,796.00. The 14th edition of the popular cycle took place on Saturday, June 14th, with 298 cyclists taking on the scenic routes around Cork Harbour. Funds raised have now been distributed to local beneficiaries, including the Mercy
Digital Dreams, Legendary Teams
-National Beauty Distribution named Digital Marketing Legend 2025- Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, celebrated the very best in digital excellence at the Cork Digital Marketing Awards 2025, held at the Rochestown Park Hotel on Friday evening. Hosted by broadcaster Sinéad Kennedy, the event brought together innovators, creators and leaders from across Cork’s business community for a night of recognition and celebration. The highlight of the night was the announcement of National Beauty
Festivals and events a key driver of economic growth, finds Cork Chamber survey
Festivals are a key driver of economic growth, according to the results of the latest Cork Chamber Economic Trends survey, with annual events offering an important boost to Cork’s economy each year. Sponsored by PTSB, the Economic Trends survey measured business sentiment and economic outlook among Cork Chamber members at the close of Q3 2025. Cork’s business community was also asked about the city’s night-time economy and events offering in this edition of the Economic Trends survey. The Q3 2025
Cork, Dublin and Northern Ireland Chambers Launch Tri-Region Partnership Agenda to Boost All-Island
Cork Chamber, Dublin Chamber and Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry jointly launched the Tri-Region Partnership Agenda, unveiling a shared roadmap for strengthening economic connectivity, investment and innovation across the island of Ireland. The launch which brought together business leaders, academics, key regional stakeholders and policymakers was part of a two day series of engagements and discussions focused on unlocking opportunity through collaboration. The Partnership sets out a
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Competitiveness tops Cork Chamber’s agenda in pre-Budget meeting with Minister Jack Chambers
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, met with Minister for Public Expenditure Jack Chambers to discuss key priorities for Cork’s business community as Budget 2026 approaches. Cork Chamber’s Budget Committee, representing key sectors of the Cork region’s economy, joined the meeting to discuss the importance of prioritising competitiveness in all budgetary measures and government decision-making. Cork Chamber President, Rob Horgan, said, “We welcome the opportunity to engage directly with Minister
Cork Chamber’s Flagship Business Awards Open for Entries with New Sponsor KPMG
The Cork Company of the Year Awards 2026 are officially open for entries, marking the beginning of another exciting chapter in celebrating the best of Cork business. This year also brings added momentum to the prestigious awards as Cork Chamber welcomes KPMG as the new title sponsor. Widely regarded as one of the most sought-after accolades in Irish business, the Cork Chamber awards honour outstanding achievement, innovation and impact across four distinct categories, reflecting the full diversity and
Springboard Communications Named PRII Consultancy Team of the Year
Independent Irish communications agency Springboard Communications has been named Public Relations Institute of Ireland (PRII) Consultancy Team of the Year at the inaugural PRII Communication Impact Awards. Presented at a gala event at the Conrad Hotel, Dublin, the award recognises the agency’s leadership in purpose-led communications, innovation, and long-term investment in its people and clients. This caps a standout year for the Cork-headquartered agency, which also won PRCA Agency of the Year at the
Cork hosts European leaders driving a greener future
Cork welcomed delegates from all over Europe this week as the city played host to the REEValue International Conference: Decarbonising European Value Chains, organised in partnership with Cork Chamber. The two-day event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, academics and innovators for a series of panel discussions and networking opportunities, exploring innovative solutions to decarbonise European value chains. The decarbonisation of value chains sits at the intersection of business and
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Cork Chamber discusses international trade developments with U.S. Ambassador
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, met with U.S. Ambassador Edward S. Walsh today to discuss priorities for Cork’s business community in the context of the current international trading environment. Today’s meeting marked the first formal engagement between the newly appointed Ambassador and Cork Chamber, with many key sectors of Cork’s economy represented at the meeting, including pharmaceuticals, tech, tourism, agrifood and financial services. Rob Horgan, Cork Chamber President, said, “The
Cork Chamber welcomes opening of Acuity’s Digital Centre of Excellence
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has welcomed the official opening of Acuity’s Digital Centre of Excellence in Penrose Dock, Cork this week. Acuity, a market-leading industrial technology company, will create over 100 highly skilled jobs in the Cork region over the next three years, across software engineering, data and AI. The opening of the firm’s Digital Centre of Excellence marks an important milestone in Acuity’s growth trajectory in Cork, while also representing a strong endorsement of
Cork Chamber Wins Global Award at World Chambers Competition in Melbourne
Melbourne, Australia/Cork, Ireland – Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has been awarded first place in the ‘Best Collaboration of Chambers, Business and Government’ category at the World Chambers Competition, held during the 14th World Chambers Congress in Melbourne. This global competition, hosted by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the World Chambers Federation, recognises the most forward-thinking and impactful initiatives by chambers across the world. Cork Chamber’s winning
EU-US Joint Statement provides clarity for business, but risks for competitiveness remain
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has responded to the publication of a new EU-US joint statement today. The statement provides welcome clarity for many in the business community, however, concerns regarding the impact on Ireland’s competitiveness remain. Conor Healy, Cork Chamber CEO, said, “Today’s joint statement provides a degree of stability for the business community following months of uncertainty. The inclusion of pharmaceuticals and semiconductors in the agreement is important, given
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Cork Chamber Named Finalist in Prestigious World Chambers Competition
Cork Chamber has been named a finalist in the World Chambers Competition, a global showcase of innovative projects led by chambers of commerce worldwide. As one of only four finalists in the ‘Best Collaboration of Chambers, Business and Government’ category, Cork Chamber will present its project at the upcoming 14th World Chambers Congress in Melbourne this September, where winners will be announced. Cork Chamber’s shortlisted entry, ‘Facilitating Sustainable & Competitive Growth through Local Green
EU-US Trade Agreement Brings Some Clarity, but Irish Competitiveness at Risk, says Cork Chamber
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has responded to the new EU-US trade deal as a step towards greater certainty for transatlantic trade. However, Cork Chamber emphasised that it does not deliver what is needed for a competitive international economic environment and poses particular risks to the Irish economy. Cork Chamber CEO, Conor Healy, said, “The negotiations have provided some clarity, however this deal falls short on competitiveness. The imposition of tariffs at this level is a clear
Springboard Communications named PRCA Agency of the Year for the second time
Springboard Communications, the independent Irish communications agency, has been named PRCA Agency of the Year at the 2025 Spotlight Awards for Excellence in Communications, held at The Shelbourne, Dublin on 20 June. This marks the second time the agency has received the prestigious national award, having previously won in 2023. The PRCA recognised Springboard Communications for its people-first approach, long-standing client relationships, and commitment to purpose-led growth. Judges also commended the
Aviation Report Echoes Tri-Region Chambers Priorities for All-Island Connectivity
The Chambers of Commerce of Cork, Dublin and Northern Ireland have welcomed the recent publication of A Pathfinder for Irish Aviation, highlighting the report’s strong alignment with the Tri-Region Partnership’s ambitions to drive all-island connectivity, linking our sub-regional strengths and promoting regional growth and international competitiveness. The Tri-Region Chambers have long supported the restoration of key intra-island air links, and the removal of the passenger cap at Dublin Airport,
Clicks. Content. Conversions.
- Cork Chamber’s Call for Digital Excellence- Cork Chamber has officially launched the Cork Digital Marketing Awards 2025, celebrating the digital excellence driving business growth and brand visibility across the region. The awards honour the talent, innovation and strategy that continue to define Cork's thriving digital marketing landscape. New for 2025, the Cork Digital Marketing Awards will be celebrated in partnership with the Marketing Institute Ireland, Cork. Open to businesses of all sizes and
Competitiveness Must Remain Core to Cork’s Future
Speaking at Cork Chamber’s Annual General Meeting at the Imperial Hotel, President Rob Horgan delivered a clear message: Cork’s ability to compete on the national and global stage depends on decisive action across housing, infrastructure, education and international engagement. Mr Horgan, now entering the second year of his presidency, said Cork must be “future-fit, investment-ready and above all, competitive.” He emphasised that sustaining this competitiveness requires coordinated focus on quality of
Mercy University Hospital opens state-of-the-art Seminar, Skills and Simulation Classroom to enhance healthcare training
Mercy University Hospital (MUH), Cork, has opened a state-of-the-art Seminar, Skills and Simulation Classroom within its Centre of Nurse Education. Designed to deliver immersive, realistic training, the new facility aims to transform how healthcare professionals develop clinical and teamwork skills by simulating real-life scenarios in a safe environment. The Seminar, Skills and Simulation Classroom was developed in the Mercy’s Centre of Nurse Education (CNE) complex, led by its Director, Ann Cummins and
