Harp Renewables and Johnstown Estate take the top prizes at the Meath Business & Tourism Awards

The 14th Meath Business & Tourism Awards took place at Knightsbrook Hotel, Trim last Friday night (17th November) with Harp Renewables based in Kentstown and Johnstown Estate Hotel and Spa in Enfield picking up the coveted Overall Excellence titles.

Held in partnership between Meath Chronicle, Meath Co Council and Boyne Valley Tourism the MBTAs are the highlight of the business social calendar with 31 entrepreneurs, firms and organisations in the running for awards.

The event was hosted by broadcaster, Blathnáid Ni Chofaigh who hails from Rathcairn with special guests Cllr Tommy Reilly, Cathaoirleach of Meath Co Council and Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee TD.

Harp Renewables is a waste to energy company specialising in aerobic and anaerobic digestion systems, saving consumers money on disposal costs.

Harp Renewables founder, Shane Finnegan said he was "stunned" to be receiving the accolade.

Employing 42 dedicated staff members, Shane says the plans are for growth into 2024.

"Our core mission is manufacturing food waste digesters, addressing the critical issue of food waste mismanagement that can lead to environmental problems. Instead, we transform food waste into a valuable resource, mitigating its negative impact. With approximately 250 machines worldwide, we’re successfully diverting an impressive volume of food waste and contributing to a more sustainable future."

Accepting the Overall Excellence in Tourism award for Johnstown Estate, Cassandra Conway, said she was "shocked but delighted" and dedicated the win to the hard working staff at Johnstown Estate in Enfield.

"They have weathered the challenges of the past year, adapting to ever-changing circumstances and ensuring that safety and guest satisfaction remains their top priority. Their resilience and unwavering commitment to excellence are a testament to their professionalism and dedication."

Opening proceedings, Meath Chronicle editor, Gavan Becton said the awards were a looking glass into "how we were doing as a county and more importantly how we are doing as a community."

"It's a wonderfully positive picture. Our nominated businesses are not just balance sheets and budgets, they are family run, customer-focused enterprises running 24/7 on the dreams and imaginations of energetic entrepreneurs and disruptors."

Congratulating all the nominees he said the Meath Chronicle was "delighted to spearhead these awards and share your journeys with a wide and appreciative audience that give an insight into the risks, the skills, the smarts and the dedication it takes in running successful businesses in 2023."

"Companies across Meath continue to show remarkable agility, adaptability and courage in developing and expanding their businesses. The business leaders and entrepreneurs who put themselves forward for an MBTA are already winners, trailblazers and local heroes. These awards allow us to recognise all that they have done to date and are still striving to achieve."

"I would also like to pay tribute to all our sponsors, many of whom have been with us from year one and whom without, these awards would simply not happen.

“Alongside our partners, Meath Co Council and Boyne Valley Tourism - which has just celebrated 30 years promoting our region across the globe - I want to say a big thank you to eCOMM, Alltech, Sheridan Insurances, Dunboyne College of Further Education and AIB Navan and Knightsbrook Hotel, your continued support and enthusiasm is very much appreciated.”

Both Minister Helen McEntee and Cllr Tommy Reilly heaped praise on the nominated businesses and winners describing their efforts as being the backbone of the economy and what makes Meath the thriving county it is.