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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
Tech Industry Alliance Launches 2025 Leaders Awards with Two New Categories
Tech Industry Alliance (TIA) has officially launched the 2025 Leaders Awards, which will take place on Friday, 28th November 2025 in the Radisson Blu Hotel, Cork. Nominations are now open for the awards and will remain open until 10 October 2025. Individuals and organisations are invited to nominate those making an exceptional contribution to the tech industry in the South-West. Now in its 18th year Tech Industry Alliance Leaders Awards is the highlight of the business and technology calendar in 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
Empower Your Team: Smarter, Stronger, and Ready for Today’s Business Challenges with Griffith College’s Revalidated BA (Hons) in Business (Blended)
In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, your team needs up-to-date skills that span finance, digital technology, AI, sales, consumer behavior, entrepreneurship, marketing, HR, and IT. The BA (Hons) in Business (Blended) at Griffith College is designed with busy professionals in mind—primarily delivered online with monthly in-person sessions in Cork—offering a flexible, comprehensive foundation in essential business disciplines. Why this course is a game-changer for your team: Future-Ready
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
AADI Announces New “The Lead Out” Fundraising Challenge in Cork City
Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland (AADI) is delighted to announce the launch of its brand-new fundraising event, “The Lead Out,” taking place across Cork City on Friday, 17th October 2025. AADI is also proud to confirm Cork Chamber as official partners for the inaugural event. With no government funding, AADI is entirely dependent on public and corporate support to continue its mission. Events like The Lead Out are critical in ensuring the charity can keep saying yes to more families waiting for the
Guinness Cork Jazz Festival Launches 2025 programme - New Acts Announced
One of Europe’s most celebrated music events, the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival, has launched its 2025 programme, which takes place this October Bank Holiday weekend (23–27 October). Now in its 47th year, the festival will feature a world-class line-up that spans jazz, funk, soul, hip-hop, and electronic innovation, with global icons and cutting-edge new talent. Headliners already announced include Cymande, JP Cooper, Orchestra Baobab, techno pioneer Jeff Mills, legendary hip-hop collective The Pharcyde,
Travel Counsellors Announce Onboarding Dates as Demand for Flexible Careers Grows
Travel Counsellors Ireland, the premium leisure and corporate travel specialists, has announced its next onboarding dates for new business owners: 1 October, 4 November and 2 December 2025. The training combines online learning with in-person sessions at Travel Counsellors’ HQ in Mahon, Cork. The first programme on 1 October will be part of the company’s Academy training pathway, designed specifically for people without prior travel industry experience but with the ambition to run their own business and
National Beauty Distribution Launches Ireland’s First AutoStore Warehouse for the Hair & Beauty Industry
€2.5 Million Investment Transforms Operations at Cork Headquarters National Beauty,one of Ireland’s leading beauty distributors, has officially launched Ireland’s first AutoStore robotic warehouse dedicated to the hair and beauty industry, following a €2.5 million investment. Installed at the company’s Cork headquarters, the state-of-the-art system marks a significant advancement in operational speed, efficiency, and scalability, setting a new standard for hair and beauty distribution across Ireland
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
Reframing famous paintings at Triskel for Autumn 2025
Reframing famous paintings at Triskel Áine Andrews’ popular series on Famous Paintings and their Hidden Histories returns to Triskel in October. But for those of you needing some art history before then, Dr Matthew Whyte from Sample-Studios will run his latest series, Art History Reframed, from Tuesday 16 September. Both series run for six weeks each with lectures on Tuesdays from 11am to 1pm. Each lecture is €25 or get 20% off when you purchase all six lectures in a series. Tickets are on sale now
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
Seaman family leads the charge as hundreds set to ‘Make their Mark on Cancer’ on Sunday, July 13th
Hundreds of walkers are expected to take to the road on Sunday, July 13th for the ‘Make Your Mark on Cancer’ charity walk, a 22 km journey from The Viaduct to the Town Hall in Bandon, in support of the Mercy Cancer Appeal.Now in its twelfth year, the walk continues to honour the memory of Mark Prendergast, a beloved Bandon man who lost his life to testicular cancer in 2012. Since the inaugural event in 2013, the walk and its supporting fundraisers have raised over €566,528 to support cancer services at
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
On Track for a more Connected Cork
Cork Chamber supports Light Rail and Commuter Rail Expansion Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, is delighted to welcome the publication of the emerging preferred route for the light rail network in Cork. This landmark project will play a pivotal role in transforming Cork's transport infrastructure, creating a well-connected, efficient and sustainable network that aligns with Cork’s ambitious climate goals. The emerging preferred route includes 17km of light rail from Mahon Point in
Cork Chamber Expresses Concern Over US Tariffs and Calls for Focussed Diplomatic Response
Enhancing our Competitiveness is Key to Economic Stability Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has expressed concern over the US administration's announcement of a 20% tariff on all EU imports from EU, recognising the potential impact on key regional sectors and emphasising the importance of a measured and strategic response. “This announcement by the US President is very significant for our national and regional economy and our focus must now be on assessing the impact, supporting businesses,
Rachel Stevenson appointed as CEO of Mercy Hospital Foundation
The Mercy Hospital Foundation is delighted to announce the appointment of Rachel Stevenson as its new Chief Executive Officer. Bringing nearly 30 years of experience in the voluntary sector, Rachel is a highly accomplished senior leader with a deep commitment to driving positive change. Rachel began her career in London and has championed causes across disability, social disadvantage, Black & Minority Ethnic issues, and homelessness. For the past 23 years, she has served as Director of Fundraising at
Sustainable Savings: New Online Tool Connects Businesses with Green Funding
-A free, easy-to-use tool helping businesses access funding to reduce energy costs- Businesses across Ireland and Europe can now take advantage of a powerful new tool designed to help cut energy costs and enhance sustainability. The REEValue.eu platform, developed as part of the EU co-funded LIFE REEValue project, has now launched, aimed at businesses of all sizes and industries, with a particular focus on SMEs with high energy consumption in the food and beverage manufacturing, transport and logistics
The Business of Belonging: Creating a Region of Opportunity for All
Cork stands at a unique juncture, poised to lead Ireland into a future that balances economic growth, sustainability and cultural vibrancy. This was the central message delivered at the Cork Chamber Annual Dinner 2025, where Chamber President Rob Horgan set out a vision for an ambitious and dynamic future for the region. This flagship event, proudly sponsored by AIB, brought together over 1,000 distinguished guests including representatives from the business and political communities. It featured a
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GE HealthCare's €132m investment a 'resounding endorsement' of Cork as a prime investment destinatio
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, today welcomed the announcement of €132 million investment by GE HealthCare. Commenting on the news Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber said, “This is a resounding endorsement of Cork and Ireland as a world-class location for global businesses to invest, grow and thrive. This expansion underscores the confidence that foreign direct investment (FDI) companies have in our region, thanks to our highly skilled workforce and access to global markets. “GE HealthCare
Chambers spearhead all Island connectivity and economic growth
Following on from the highly successful mission to Belfast in May 2024, Cork, Dublin and Northern Ireland Chambers have come together once again, to foster deeper cooperation and connectivity across the island of Ireland. This most recent gathering brought together delegations made up of business leaders and stakeholders from the three regions for the series of meetings and events in Dublin. Travelling with Cork Chamber were representatives from Cork Chamber Board, along with participants from Port of
Triskel Sample Project space visual arts development programme in Cork continues into a New Year
The exciting visual arts partnership between Triskel and Sample-Studios continues into 2025, offering another twelve months of providing a visual arts project space for artists, especially emerging and mid-career artists, to test ideas and to develop new work that can be seen by the public. Triskel Sample Project Space offers tangible career development and audience engagement opportunities to artists on their ‘home turf’ where they have a safe space to develop new ideas, within which risk-taking is
Cork Chamber Honours Jim Barry with Outstanding Contribution to Business Award 2024
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has announced Jim Barry, Managing Director of Barry Group, as the recipient of the Outstanding Contribution to Business Award 2024. Presented at Cork Chamber’s Dublin Dinner, the award celebrates Jim’s profound impact on Irish business and recognises his significant achievements in developing Barry Group into a powerhouse in the Irish wholesale distribution market. Under Mr Barry’s leadership, Barry Group has transformed from a local family-run operation into
Cork is uniquely positioned as a model city for urban evolution
The Cork Chamber Dublin Dinner, held this evening at the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road in association with EY, showcased the vital collaboration between Cork and Dublin and its significance to the prosperity of Ireland as a whole. The event was attended by over 600 leaders from Ireland’s business, political, and diplomatic sectors. The keynote address was delivered by the former Tánaiste, Simon Coveney TD, who is stepping away from politics after 25 years of public service. Drawing on his experience as
Election 2024 - Business Priorities to Shape Cork’s Future
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has today launched its General Election 2024 manifesto, outlining the key priorities for businesses and the wider economy across Cork City and County as the election approaches. Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber, said, “Through our continuous engagement with members across Cork City and County, Cork Chamber has a unique understanding of the key priorities and concerns for businesses and individuals in Ireland’s fastest-growing city region, Cork. The next
Accelerating Sustainability in Irish Business
-Cork Chamber Spotlights Energy Efficiency as Key to Sustainable Business Growth- Cork Chamber hosted the first national REEValue event today, focusing on sustainability and energy efficiency in business. The event forms part of the REEValue project, an EU-funded initiative that aims to accelerate sustainability across sectors through collaboration, innovation and practical solutions. Among the attendees were international project partners from Malta, as well as local business leaders, government
Marbral Advisory have appointed Conor Gourley as a Business and Talent Development Manager
International change and project management specialists Marbral Advisory, have appointed Conor Gourley as a Business and Talent Development Manager in Dublin. The new role has been created in response to the Company’s growing multi-jurisdictional portfolio and expansion into Ireland. Mr Gourley will be responsible for identifying new business opportunities, building and maintaining client relationships, and developing a regional pool of high-quality consultants to meet client demand. He will be
Progress in offshore renewable energy welcomed by the Cork Offshore Renewable Industry Forum
The Cork Offshore Renewable Industry Forum (CORIF) has welcomed recent progress towards the development of the offshore renewable energy industry, both in Cork and across Ireland. The approval of both the Planning and Development Bill and the South Coast Designated Maritime Area Plan for Offshore Renewable Energy (DMAP) by the Dáil last week marked significant steps forward for the offshore renewables industry, and continued cooperation between industry, policymakers and developers is critical to ensure
New York and European capital cities the most sought-after routes for future connectivity for Cork’s
New York, alongside key European cities, is top of the wish list of businesses in Cork for future connectivity, according to the results of the Cork Business Travel Survey 2024. The survey, conducted by Cork Chamber in cooperation with Cork Airport, provides key insights into the priorities of business travellers and airport users in Cork, as well as their most wanted destinations for future connectivity. Cork Airport plays a key role in the economy of Ireland’s southern region, contributing over €1
Cork Chamber outlines business priorities for Budget 2025 in meeting with Minister for Finance
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, met with Minister for Finance Jack Chambers as part of the Minster’s visit to Cork today. Chamber representatives from across the Cork region and key sectors joined in the meeting to discuss the current business landscape in Cork with the Minister, as well as key priorities for Budget 2025. President of Cork Chamber Rob Horgan said, “We very much welcome the opportunity to meet with Minister for Finance Jack Chambers in Cork today. With Budget 2025 fast
MARBRAL ADVISORY CONTINUES EXPANSION WITH PRINCIPAL ROLE IN IRELAND
International change and project management specialist Marbral Advisory, has appointed Chris Cashell as a Principal Change Architect. The new role has been created in response to the Company’s growing multi-jurisdictional portfolio and expansion into Ireland. Mr Cashell will deliver planning and implementation of projects in technical, operational, and cultural change environments. He will also be responsible for contributing towards the successful growth of the business and brand in Ireland. Mr
