Jason Frehill, CCMA and South Dublin County Council; David Quirke, Sugar Plum Sweetery; Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment; Denise Buckley, Sugar Plum Sweetery; Brenda Hegarty, chair of the National Enterprise Awards; Teri Smith, Local Enterprise Office, Centre of Excellence Ireland.

Westmeath's Sugar Plum Sweetery crowned National Enterprise Award winner

Published: Fri 19 Jun 2026, 10:24 AM

Westmeath chocolatier Sugar Plum Sweetery has been named the overall winner of the National Enterprise Awards 2026, while also securing the Midlands regional title.

The National Enterprise Awards for 2026 took place on Thursday, June18, at the Mansion House in Dublin

Founded by Denise Buckley and David Quirke, Sugar Plum Sweetery represented Local Enterprise Office Westmeath at the national finals after winning the county enterprise award earlier this year.

The business has gained national recognition for its handmade chocolate creations, including its viral Dubai Chocolate Bar, and has experienced rapid growth in recent years.

Reacting to the award win, the company thanked its staff, customers and supporters, as well as the backing it has received from the Local Enterprise Offices, Enterprise Ireland and Local Enterprise Office Westmeath.

"We’ve big plans over the coming months with two new stores opening in cities throughout Ireland, locations to be announced very soon, all because of all your amazing support.

"For anyone that has bought a product or simply engaged with our posts online, we are so appreciative of the support."

Published: Fri 19 Jun 2026, 10:24 AM