More finalists for Athlone Business Awards

The shortlist for this year’s Athlone Business Awards has been announced.

This year’s gala event will be held on Saturday, November 8, at Hodson Bay Hotel.

The awards, hosted by Athlone Chamber of Commerce, recognise outstanding achievements across a wide range of sectors, from small family-run enterprises to large-scale organisations driving growth and creating employment in the region.

Here we profile finalists in five further categories. There are 21 categories in total.

You can read details of the otherfinalist categories here, and here and here

Start up/Emerging New Business

Sponsor: Midlands 103

THE MISNEACH CENTRE

The Misneach Centre in Moate, is a counselling and wellness hub founded on courage, compassion, and community. Opened in September 2024 by Clinical Director Anita Lynch, it has grown from a solo practice to a team of 20 therapists and professionals in under a year.

Offering counselling for adults, couples, and teens, alongside workshops, support groups, and complementary therapies, every client is carefully matched to the right therapist. With accessible low-cost services and flexible hours, The Misneach Centre is a place of hope and resilience, where clients feel safe to heal and therapists are empowered to grow.

JIM ASSOCIATES

JIM Associates is a full-service 360° digital marketing agency based in Athlone, Ireland. It helps businesses of all sizes grow smarter by bringing every key digital service under one roof — from SEO, PPC, and social media management to content creation, videography, web development, and customer service solutions.

HAIRLAB

Established in 2025, HairLab is a modern and inclusive barbershop located in the heart of Athlone town. It serves a diverse clientele—from teenagers discovering their style to older gents keeping their look sharp.

Its mission is to become known not only for top-tier barbering skills but also as a place where every client feels welcome, valued, and confident in their appearance.

Professional/Service Provider Of The Year – Medium to Large Company

Sponsor: Snap

WEST-MIDLANDS CREDIT UNION

West-Midlands Credit Union is one of Ireland’s leading member-owned financial cooperatives, serving over 80,000 members and managing €465 million in assets.

With a strong regional presence, it offers current accounts, debit cards, mobile banking, mortgages, personal loans, savings, pensions, and investments. Focused on ethical, accessible, and locally driven financial solutions, the Credit Union empowers individuals and communities, supporting local initiatives, fostering financial literacy, and maintaining exceptional member service. Its commitment to trust, integrity, and community makes it a cornerstone of economic and social wellbeing in the Midlands.

ZINKWORKS

Zinkworks is a global leader in software innovation, specialising in cutting-edge technologies for the telecommunications and financial services sectors.

With over 200 engineers delivering tailored solutions worldwide, Zinkworks drives operational efficiency and business growth for technically complex organisations.

The company fosters a culture of excellence, collaboration, and inclusion, encouraging professional development and innovation. By combining technical expertise with a people-first ethos, Zinkworks ensures client satisfaction while supporting employee growth, creating a dynamic workplace that empowers teams to deliver impactful solutions across diverse industries.

BYRNE CAROLAN CUNNINGHAM LLP SOLICITORS

Founded in 1992, Byrne Carolan Cunningham LLP is a trusted legal practice with offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough, and Galway.

With over 33 years’ experience, the firm specialises in personal injury, property law, judicial review, wills, and inheritance law. Recognised nationally, they’ve won Irish Law Awards from 2022–2025, including Property Law Firm of the Year and Law Firm of the Year (Leinster).

Their mission is to provide exceptional legal representation with respect, discretion, and professionalism, ensuring every client receives specialist advice in a welcoming and approachable environment.

Customer Service Of The Year – Small Sized Company

Sponsor: Lynam Tours

KING OF DECOR

Founded in 2020 by Inga, King of Decor has transformed from a kitchen-table idea into one of Athlone’s leading balloon décor and event styling businesses. Known for creativity, reliability, and personal service, the team brings flair to everything from family milestones to corporate events. King of Decor works closely with local venues and supports the Irish Wheelchair Association as its chosen charity. With a growing family team and ongoing investment in training, the business continues to delight clients across the Midlands with unforgettable, joy-filled designs.

RIGNEY FORGE LTD

Rigney Forge is an award-winning retail design studio based in Mount Temple. They partner with retailers across Ireland and beyond to create spaces that are both beautiful and commercially effective.

From concept design to spatial planning, branding, and storytelling, Rigney Forge brings clarity and creativity to every project. Their clients include local businesses and major brands such as Tirlán, Jump Juice Bars, and Spar Malta.

Known for its collaborative approach and deep understanding of retail environments, the studio helps businesses craft meaningful spaces that connect with customers and drive performance.

RADIANT BY HANNAH KELLY

Founded in 2021, Radiant by Hannah Kelly has grown from a one-woman dream into one of the Midlands’ leading beauty and wellness destinations.

With two thriving salons, a talented 11-person team, and over 5,500 loyal clients, Radiant continues to expand.

Owner Hannah is now developing a flagship two-storey salon in Blyry and launching the Midlands Academy of Beauty to train future professionals. With multiple award wins and an unwavering commitment to positivity and care, Radiant is more than a salon—it’s a community built on passion, empowerment, and excellence.

Best In Hospitality

Sponsor: Luain Clothing

WINEPORT LODGE

Wineport Lodge is renowned for its personal, effortless hospitality.

Guests are welcomed like old friends, with thoughtful touches and genuine care making every stay memorable. Staff provide warmth, authenticity, and attention to detail, creating a sense of belonging.

HODSON BAY GROUP

Since 1992, Hodson Bay Group has grown into one of Ireland’s leading family-owned hospitality companies, operating Hodson Bay Hotel, Galway Bay Hotel, Sheraton Athlone Hotel, and Hyatt Centric The Liberties Dublin. Employing over 780 people and welcoming 600,000 guests annually, the group focuses on respect, passion, and excellence, with strong commitment to people, community, and sustainability.

SHAMROCK LODGE HOTEL

Family-run since 1814, Shamrock Lodge Hotel offers authentic Irish hospitality in Athlone. Guests relax in elegant rooms, enjoy locally sourced cuisine, and celebrate milestones in the John Broderick Ballroom. Combining tradition with modern comfort, it provides a warm and welcoming experience for all.

ATHLONE SPRINGS HOTEL

Athlone Springs Hotel is a contemporary 4-star property with 68 spacious guestrooms and the Zen Leisure Centre featuring a 20-metre pool. Known for conferences, events, and weddings, the hotel offers exceptional dining at the Cedar Brasserie & Bistro.

Part of the Irish-owned Só Hotels group, it combines warm, friendly hospitality with a convenient location just off the M6, complete with complimentary parking, ensuring a relaxing and memorable stay for both business and leisure guests.

GLASSON LAKEHOUSE

Glasson Lakehouse blends modern luxury with warm Irish hospitality. Overlooking the stunning shores of Lough Ree, it offers exceptional accommodation, dining, and experiences while supporting local suppliers and the community. Its relaxed, contemporary approach redefines Irish getaway hospitality.

Family Business Of The Year

Sponsor: Hodson Bay Group

FERNHILL GARDEN CENTRE

Fernhill Garden Centre is a family-run destination combining community spirit, quality, and sustainability. From humble beginnings, it has grown into one of Ireland’s top garden centres, offering premium plants, Irish giftware, and an award-winning restaurant. Supporting local suppliers and investing in solar energy, Fernhill remains a welcoming place where families gather and creativity thrives.

TOPLINE HEAVINS & EURONICS

Founded in 1984, Heavins.ie is a proud Athlone family business that has evolved from a small local store into one of Ireland’s leading independent retailers. Serving customers nationwide, Heavins combines traditional family values of trust and service with modern e-commerce innovation, offering a wide range of home, DIY, and lifestyle products.

REYNOLDS COMMERCIALS LTD

A family business since 1993, Reynolds Commercials has become a leading name in Ireland’s commercial vehicle industry. Their commitment to quality, reliability, and customer care underpins their success, while continued investment in facilities, technology, and people reflects their long-term vision for sustainable growth in the Midlands and beyond.