Taking Care of Business with Ronan Berry

This week, Dermot Smyth takes us through DTS's journey from humble beginnings in Offaly to becoming a global name in sterilisation validation. Safety expert Breda Colgan lays out what rising workplace injury fines and a growing number of HSA inspectors mean for your business. And at MojoFest 2025, Helena Brunkman of Clipsk explains how her app is making pro-level video editing accessible to everyone—with help from Midlands 103's Zoe Ryan.

Scopey is leveling up—founder Jenna Farrell reveals how the anti-scope creep tool is breaking into AI-powered construction tech. If you've ever dreamed of life behind the wheel, Brendan Buggy and Joe Wynne are leading Ireland's new push to recruit and train bus drivers. Plus, Offaly's John McNally talks climate action on the ground, one initiative (and tweet) at a time. And finally, Tapitag's Mark Gibbons explains how their smart networking tech could make business cards a thing of the past—just in time for the 2025 National Enterprise Awards.

What does it take for a business to thrive in a shaky economy? Jamie O'Hanlon of AVID Partners joins Ronan to talk mergers, succession planning, and key advice for SMEs. Martina Fitzgerald of Scale Ireland shares findings from their latest survey on what start-ups need most heading into 2025—especially in the regions. With Accelerate Green 2025 on the horizon, BnM's Benedicta Durcan explains how the Midlands are helping lead Ireland's climate innovation. And fresh from their Irish Construction Excellence Award win, Peter Lyons and Joe Breslin look back on the Esker Arts Centre, and how architecture can serve community.

From the professional rugby pitch to performance supplements — Jack Carty shares how his new venture, Cognitive Blends, is helping men optimise health, balance hormones, and thrive on and off the field. Scaling a business doesn't happen by accident — Eoghan O'Mahony shares the must-haves for growth ahead of his one-day masterclass for SME leaders. Turning research into real-world solutions — Enterprise Ireland's new funding stream could be the launchpad your idea needs. Discover how from Emma Callinan Senior Principal Scientific Officer - Spinouts & Research Commercialisation. As Laois continues to position itself as a hub for industry and innovation, Angela McEvoy from Laois County Council explains how strategic land development is attracting high-value employers to the county.

After taking the heartbreaking decision to close his shop in Moate, Shane Maher embarks on a bold new chapter — hear how a beloved local butcher is reinventing his business in Tullamore. From a lightbulb moment to a national business plan — we meet the twin brothers from Portlaoise CBS whose clever new startup Mooving.ie is making waves just in time for the Student Enterprise National Final With stress and burnout on the rise, how can businesses turn wellbeing into a competitive advantage? IBECs Patrick Haslett details new research into workplace wellbeing and how companies can create healthier, happier workplaces. From cutting carbon to creating communities — Colin Donnery explains why sustainability is now central to everything FRS Co-Op does.

Kieran Walsh on how Simpli Baked went from local lunchboxes to supermarket shelves across Europe with their tasty new Wraphouse range. From your pocket to the world – MojoFest founder Glen Mulcahy is back to talk smartphones, AI, and why mobile storytelling is rewriting the rules of journalism. Trust us – they're the best! Paul Heavin from heavins.ie joins us fresh from winning Ireland's Most Trusted Website to share how this family-run Athlone store is nailing the online game.

Stressed out? Tullamore's Reveal Beauty & Wellness has just the thing – Brain Tap, a wellness tech for modern life. With €2.2 million in innovation projects secured and a brand-new strategy just launched, the Advanced Technologies in Manufacturing cluster is putting the midlands and beyond on the global industry map. Still unlocking the Midlands after 43 years! Jack Nolan looks back on decades of keys, callouts and keeping the region safe – with a little help from the next generation. Easter never looked (or tasted) so good! Georgia Quealy from Bon Chocolatiers talks hand-painted eggs, viral pistachio creations, and why Athlone is Ireland's new chocolate capital.

Can employers dismiss staff struggling with addiction? We unpack aWRC ruling that's reshaping how businesses approach alcoholism and misconduct in the workplace with Ciarán O'Mahony, O'Mahony Safety Solutions. From self-funded startup to €6m turnover – Shane Tobin CEO of TrueWealth.ie shares the highs, the hurdles, and how business owners can extract wealth the smart way.” Liberation Day, trade tariffs, and a VUCA world – futurist Damien Heary of FutaVista Consultancy helps Irish exporters make sense of global uncertainty and prepare for what's next. Fergal Moran of CJ Sheeran on how their new partnership with The Pallet LOOP is transforming waste into value – a game-changing circular economy model for Ireland's construction industry.

Cuty Gupta explains how Local Enterprise Office supports like Digital for Business and the Grow Digital Voucher are helping midlands SMEs automate, innovate, and stay competitive in 2025. Donagh O'Leary of Medicines for Ireland warns that a new EU wastewater directive could cause serious medicine shortages in Ireland – and explains why generic drug makers are challenging it in the European courts. Breda Colgan from Salutem Advisory & Training shares practical insights on improving workplace safety and compliance, starting with a recent case that highlights key lessons for employers. David Walsh-Kemmis, the man behind Ballykilcavan Brewery near Stradbally, joins us from Meitheal 2025 to talk tourism, storytelling, and how local producers are showcasing Ireland to the world.

Gary O'Keefe shares Crewit Resourcing's expansion into Denmark, the future of global recruitment, and how they're helping solve Ireland's labour shortages in sectors like agriculture, construction and transport. David Savage from BDO explains what Trump's new tariffs mean for Irish businesses and how to mitigate risks as a potential EU–US trade war looms. Geraldine Dolan reflects on resilience, community support, and rising costs in hospitality after a fire temporarily closed the much-loved Poppy Fields Café. Eoghan Preston gives us a flavour of The Make & Mark in Portlaoise, its vibrant entertainment lineup, and the fast-growing hospitality brand behind it – RHK Bars.

Economic & Tourism Growth in the Midlands. Mary Hensey & Sarah Morgan discuss the upcoming Together We Thrive event in Offaly, focusing on sustainability, regenerative tourism, and economic development in the Midlands. Ciarán Gorman of Mullingar's Bevcraft Group shares insights on Bevcraft's rapid expansion, the impact of US tariffs on steel and aluminium, and how Enterprise Ireland is supporting Irish companies in the face of a trade war. Laois butcher Mark Williams is preparing for his third appearance at the World Butchers' Event in Paris—he discusses Team Ireland's chances and the art of butchery. Dr. Niall Burke discusses how Bitcoin mining can help absorb Ireland's renewable energy surplus, stabilise the grid, and support the energy transition ahead of his Bitcoin Education Talk at TUS Athlone.

Ronan Berry discusses the EU pay transparency directive, closing the gender pay gap, the kickstart programme that's helping skilled tradespeople and micro-business owners transition and thrive - and for Seachtain na Gaeilge - he takes a look at some of the most over-used "corporate speak" phrases!

Mullingar's viral chocolate sensation! Denise Buckley of Sugar Plum Sweetery shares how their Dubai Chocolate Bar skyrocketed to nationwide fame. Celebrating local enterprise success! Eoin Tully of Aserve and Robert Collentine of Hybrid Engineering on scaling their businesses and competing in the LEO Westmeath County Enterprise Awards. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is paramount to competitive advantage - in advance of International Women's Day 2025 Jasmine Elkershi of AllPro Recruitment will discuss supporting working women and the ROI of diversity.

Revolutionising plastic recycling - Novelplast CEO Neil Skeffington on how his company is tackling packaging waste and leading the charge in sustainable manufacturing. To date Novelplast has prevented over 25,000 tonnes of plastic entering landfill. Portlaoise Plaza wins big! Colm Mulrooney shares how Supermac's at Junction 17 took home the Outlet of the Year award. Are Ireland's agri-food suppliers being treated fairly? Melanie Hall from the Agri-Food Regulator wants to hear from agri-food suppliers about their trading experiences with retail and wholesale buyers of their products via a confidential survey.

From startup to the silver screen! Leah Fletcher of deDANÚ shares how her Irish wellness brand landed a starring role in Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy. Midlands food and drink goes national! Bernie Everard previews the Midlands Food and Drink Networks debut at CATEX 2025 and profiles the local producers making waves in Ireland's food scene. Cost of living hits Irish SMEs hardest—how can fintech help? Niall Mac an tSionnaigh, SumUp's CEO for Ireland, unpacks key survey insights and digital solutions for small businesses. And, why is Chris Ball of RBK finding himself in very cold water in February?

Athlone Chamber welcomes formation of a new government—what's next for the Midlands? CEO Tommy Hogan shares priorities for housing, infrastructure, and business growth. Honor Deevy of Local Enterprise Office Laois gives an overview of National Enterprise Week and breaks down key supports for businesses. It has been a record year nationally with 7,100 new jobs created in 2024 by LEO clients. Sustainability is serious business! Caroline Hofman of The CUBE on how SMEs can future-proof operations and access green grants at the upcoming Business Sustainability Roadshow. Huge celebrations as a Laois restaurant is awarded a first Michellin Star. Is it time to take tourism seriously in the Mullingar region?

Bord na Móna's latest Gender Pay Gap Report reveals a leadership shift—Sharon Doyle, Head of HR & Corporate Affairs, discusses their commitment to diversity, female leadership, and workplace inclusion. With cycling to work more popular than ever, Eoin Coughlan of Outdoorsy.ie explains how the Cycle to Work scheme is making commuting greener, healthier, and more affordable. How will Waterways Ireland's new Craft Centre of Excellence in Tullamore preserve heritage craftsmanship and boost regional development? Patrick Harkin joins us to discuss this major investment. Tariffs, trade wars and immediate effects on markets and currencies - should Irish SMEs fear Trump's tariffs? John Finn of The Treasury Hub offers an expert view!

What's next for Ireland's start-ups? Scale Ireland CEO Martina Fitzgerald joins us to discuss their Athlone summit and the State of Start-ups Survey 2025. How can drug and alcohol testing improve workplace safety? Ciarán O'Mahony shares insights on proactive safety measures and lessons from recent storms. Mullingar's Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism, and Employment, talks about his priorities after reappointment. Plus, Local Enterprise Offices are now supporting a record number of jobs—what does this mean for businesses?

What does TikTok's ban mean for small businesses, influencers, and Europe's content creators? How are employers' attitudes toward flexible work and emerging trends like "soft quitting" reshaping Ireland's workplace culture? Explore the 2025 EY Entrepreneur Of The Year™ programme, celebrating Ireland's most innovative business leaders and their global impact. Discover how Nostra became a leader in cloud innovation and one of Ireland's fastest-scaling tech companies, with Rosenallis' Kevin O'Loughlin sharing insights on scaling success through acquisitions.

Discover how Paul O'Kelly's Masterclass is equipping CEOs to drive growth and success in 2025. Mullingar's Ken Delaney shares insights on Northern Ireland tourism and how new regulations may impact the industry. Tom Lawless reflects on 116 years of family tradition and evolving trends in the funeral industry. Neil McDonnell discusses Ireland's new Employment Law Review Group and its impact on SMEs.

Taking Care of Business with Sinead Hubble

Reviewing 2024 and looking ahead to 2025 with Helen Gee of G's Gourmet Foods, Chris Ball Corporate Finance Partner at RBK and Margaret Considine President Chambers Ireland.

Liam Holton, CEO of Future Ticketing, shares how this Offaly-based company is revolutionising the ticketing industry with API-first software and ambitious plans for international expansion in 2025. Caitríona Mordan Manager of atim cluster introduces the DreamBig initiative and discusses how advanced manufacturing companies in the Midlands are inspiring students and developing talent to future-proof the industry. With Mikey Ryan Kirby Group, Sarah Adams Abbott Diagnostics, Gary Kelly Grant Engineering and TY student JP Carney. Eamon Callaghan, founder of Vision85, reveals his plans to reimagine business hubs in Portlaoise, including the soon-to-open Hub R32, designed to energize collaboration and innovation.

In this episode of Taking Care of Business on Midlands 103: Trevor Enright, Managing Director of Enplast Extrusions, reveals how his Granard-based company became Ireland's first to recycle election posters into construction materials, showcasing the circular economy in action. Jasmine Elkershi from AllPro Recruitment shares expert tips for planning a Christmas workplace party that's both inclusive and professional, ensuring festive fun without the HR headaches. Des Travers, CEO of DPD Ireland, celebrates their milestone of delivering 10 million parcels by electric vehicles, proving sustainability and logistics can go hand in hand. Anthony Gorman, founder of Anthony's Wooden Crafts, tells his incredible story of transforming a school project into a thriving business, now supplying handcrafted festive products to Dunnes Stores and Lidl nationwide.

Fergal Moran, Director of Business Development at CJ Sheeran, Ireland's largest supplier of timber packaging and pallets, shares how their innovative, sustainable practices are setting new industry standards. Ray Byrne of The Wineport Lodge and Kieran Conroy from Tullamore Phoenix discuss the challenges impacting the hospitality sector that a new government must solve to keep the trade alive. Mick O'Dowd, Head of Agri-Business at Kepak Group, reveals insights into their €8 million investment in Kilbeggan, enhancing market access, sustainability, and the local economy. James Bourke, President of Mullingar Chamber, talks about Winterfest Mullingar and how initiatives like these boost regional retail and tourism.

Celebrate the incredible success of Joe Gorman and Dolores Gorman, whose organic exotic mushrooms earned them the ‘New & Innovative Award' at the National Organic Awards 2024. David Broderick from the Small Firms Association unpacks their election manifesto "For a Nation of Small Businesses." What does Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s controversial healthcare role under a Trump administration mean for Ireland's thriving pharmaceutical industry? We explore the potential challenges and opportunities with industry expert John Whelan. CEO Athlone Chamber of Commerce Tommy Hogan outlines their demands and expectations as election canvassing continues apace.

How an Offaly-based family business is transforming Irish wool into eco-friendly bedding products, supporting local farmers and leading the shift from synthetic to sustainable with Kevin Dooley of Dooley's Wool. Expresso English is providing practical, fast-tracked language courses to open doors for meaningful employment and social integration for migrant and refugee communities and they have partnered with a not-for-profit in Westmeath on a trial project. Can transforming our approach to housing and the work permits and visa system ensure we can attract enough top talent to join the workforce to meet the needs of a growing economy already at full employment? With Colin Donnery CEO FRS Co-op and Gary O'Keefe of Crewit Resourcing

From Corporate Success to Filmmaking: Noel McIntyre, founder of Motion Picture Media, outlines his remarkable journey from managing a multimillion-euro business to winning awards in Hollywood. Spotlight on Gender Equality in Leadership: Ronan will delve into the current landscape for female CEOs in Ireland's top companies, discussing the barriers to female representation in leadership and the ongoing journey to close the gender pay gap with Margaret Considine - President Chambers Ireland and CEO EQuita Consulting Ltd. Empowering Leaders with CIPD: Audrey Doyle, Senior Manager in EY People Consulting and CIPD Committee Member, joined Ronan ahead a CIPD Midlands event, “Empowering Leaders to Create a High-Performance Culture.” Featuring Kevin Brady, founder of Performance Unlocked Kevin Brady, the event will explore what it takes to cultivate strong, engaged teams and boost employee retention. The closing date for the €4,000 Power Up grant is just days away - John Clendennen President Vintners' Federation of Ireland (VFI) will rally eligible businesses to apply for the funding.

Thomas Fox's business, SoloFox uses his unique technology and expertise to optimise solar panel efficiency systems for maximum performance. Paul Molloy's Boora Bainne goes from strength to strength, becoming a beacon of sustainability and the circular economy. DETE calls all businesses in the retail and hospitality sectors to register NOW for the €4,000 Power Up grant. John McCann looks at the key points and eligibility criteria

Interested in exploring the space economy? Padraig Doolan, Enterprise Ireland's National Delegate to the European Space Agency - ESA, will highlight how Irish businesses can engage with ESA initiatives and funding opportunities. Is your business struggling to secure funding from traditional banks? Gary Grimes from Simpli Finance discusses alternative, flexible finance options for Irish SMEs. From peer-to-peer lending to merchant cash advances, Gary will share insights on how businesses can access diverse finance solutions tailored to their needs and avoid the limitations of conventional banking. Employers can learn about the financial and other supports available to recruit and retain newly arrived individuals from Ukrainian and other communities. This special event on 24th October is presented by the Department of Social Protection and Laois Community Integration Forum. Why has a midlands farmer completed the longest Malin to Mizen cycle?

Mullingar's Robotics & Drives has been acquired by Automated Industrial Robotics. RDS is one of the largest robotics solutions providers in Ireland today with customers across various sectors, including CPG, food and beverage, medical devices, personal care, pharmaceutical, and industrial cloud solutions and Managing Director Ken McNevin dropped in to talk about their exciting future plans. John Clendennen, President of the Vintners Federation of Ireland, discusses why the representative group was involved in a national protest on rising costs and to demand urgent government support for the sector. Is your business ready for NIS2? New EU cybersecurity rules bring significant challenges for Irish companies - Mark Grenham from Avova Technologies discusses key points. Why have over 2,500 secondary school students passed through the Tullamore Court Hotel over the last two days?

Highlighting Dimply's mission to personalise financial journeys using AI and machine learning, and how it's reshaping financial services and customer engagement - with CEO Jackie (Jac) Dunne from Offaly. Exploring how Slick+ is revolutionising social learning and employee engagement through innovative knowledge-sharing platforms for hybrid workplaces with CEO Paul Conneally from Ballinasloe. Jim Deignan CEO of Payzone Ireland on recent expansion, eParking solutions, and the company's role in transforming digital payment and customer experience in the region.

To analyse Budget 2025 Ronan is joined by Enda O'Toole Partner at Milne O'Dwyer, Margaret Considine CEO EQuita Group and President Chambers Ireland, Kieran Conroy of Tullamore Phoenix, John Clendennen President Vintners Federation of Ireland and Philip Kelly of DNG Kelly Duncan.

Is the hybrid working dream set to end as some multinationals mandate employees return to the office full-time? Jasmine Elkershi of AllPro Recruitment has a finger on the pulse on this one! How a new €10m polymer technologies facility opened at TUS Athlone represents a transformative investment in Ireland's polymer and MedTech industries - with Declan Devine and Kenny O'Brien. Ronan catches up with midlands businesses exhibiting at the National Ploughing Championships 2024 including Fore Distillery, Castle Paints and Tapitag

Live on-site in Ratheniska, Ronan was joined by Colin Donnery CEO FRS Co-op; Caroline Hofman MD of The Cube Low Carbon Centre and Jack Pilkington CEO Agri Data Analytics to discuss all matters farming and agribusiness including Irish agri innovation and global potential, attracting and retaining talent into the sector; sustainability and CSRD; spending (or splurging) the National Training Fund and more. Also features Leo Clancy CEO Enterprise Ireland and Ronan Scully of Self Help Africa too.

CEO Eamonn Crowley on PTSB's transformation and growth strategy, digital innovation, and the bank's social and community impact under his leadership. Shirley Kiernan discusses the rapid growth of the Midlands Career Expo, highlighting its expansion, sustainability focus, and unique opportunities for job-seekers and businesses alike. David Leydon shares insights from IFAC's 2024 Food & Agribusiness Report, focusing on sustainability, global expansion, and the challenges Irish agribusinesses face in navigating rising costs and workforce shortages.

An Garda Síochána warns of staggering amounts stolen in investment fraud so far this year - with Graham Kavanagh CPO. From the classroom to workplace: should we ban smartphones for better productivity? Margaret Cox of ICE Group and Karl Hegarty of PhoneAwayBox Separate to Concentrate will discuss. Mullingar firm Better Plants, a leading provider of organic liquid seaweeds and seaweed-based animal supplements is expanding into the European market. Founder Ollie Greene reveals all. CEO Tommy Hogan on Athlone Chamber of Commerce's pre-budget 2024 submission and their upcoming business awards.

Eamon Callaghan, the driving force behind Vision 85 in Portlaoise, is on a mission to boost local businesses and create jobs in the Midlands, but limited office space is hindering his plans—and he's not pleased! Newly appointed Managing Director of Bluebird Care Suzanne Ryan discusses leadership, vision, strategy and market trends at the leading national provider of home care services in Ireland. Jack Murray, CEO of MediaHQ, about the groundbreaking Global CommTech Report and the future of PR and PR technology.

New Frontiers by Enterprise Ireland is an equity-free, nationwide startup accelerator that equips first-time founders in Ireland. Nick Allen has a call out for the latest round and alumnus Jack Pilkington of Agri Data Analytics will talk about the crucial role it played in starting his business. The latest news and developments at Portlaoise Enterprise Centre with Manager Patricia Freyne. Herdwatch is a farm management app that simplifies paperwork and compliance for farmers and it's scaling rapidly and has entered the US market. Co-founder Fabien Peyaud tells the story so far!

ACORNS marks 10 years with its latest call for female entrepreneurs. Lead ACORN Alison Ritchie MD of Portarlington's Polar Ice Ltd will discuss the programme devised by Paula Fitzsimons and backed by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine that has supported over 400 business owners to date. Bon Chocolatiers has been nominated for the prestigious Great Taste award and co-founder Daniel Linehan was in the studio to chat about the businesses launched during the pandemic. Laois' Ballykilcavan Brewery located adjacent to Electric Picnic is precluded from selling local beer at the festival. How can we ensure town centres benefit from shows and events and the future of Irish pubs as over 100 are currently being converted to housing units nationally With VFI President John Clendennen.

Future tech entrepreneur; new President at Mullingar Chamber; significant changes in traditional telecoms and a public house celebrates 250 years! Offaly student wins top prize in University of Galway's Start100 competition for his app FocusZen Introducing Mullingar Chambers new President James Bourke as he starts his term in office. The current state of play in the telecom market on a global scale and its effects on the Irish ecosystem with Shena Brien CEO IP Telecom. Morrisey's in Abbeyleix, one of Ireland's oldest pubs, celebrates a major milestone with ambitious plans to mark the occasion!

Lying to your boss? What happens next - with Caroline Reidy of The HR Suite. Lucy Charles LCY Socials details how to truly harness the power of social media for your business - big or small! Swapping a career in Operations and Production Management to become a Breathwork Coach with a goal to help corporate professionals reduce stress, avoid burnout and increase productivity through targeted breathwork techniques - with Jonny O'Donoghue. A legend of business and the community in Mullingar retires after 38 years with Maxol.

Meet the family owners Coolanowle Organic Meats in Laois, finalists in the 2024 EU Organic Awards, The do's and don'ts of succession planning for business with Organisational Psychologist and Workplace Architect Theresa Hand-Campbell. 206 jobs have been saved so far this year via the SCARP (Small Company Administrative Rescue Process) as the total number of insolvencies increased by 25% in the first six months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. A well known Irish organising announces a major rebranding.

In this episode, Siobhan Kinsella from the Employment and Recruitment Federation discusses new labour laws and their impact on small businesses, Regina Dunne shares insights from the EU JustTransition Fund Procurement Training, Helen Gee talks about Abbey Farm Foods' partnership with Aldi, and David Broderick presents the Small Firms Association's Budget 2025 submission to support small businesses amidst rising costs.

Taking Care of Business with Ronan Berry

• TUS Athlone launches an exciting new AI programme designed to equip graduates with cutting-edge skills for business applications. • Delve into a new ESRI report projecting Ireland's need for up to 53,000 new homes annually, highlighting how regions like the Midlands will need to respond to this growing demand - with John Geoghegan of Mullingar Chamber. • Do the majority of Irish firms dispel the idea that artificial intelligence (AI) will replace some of their workers and will AI regulation be a major nail in the coffin for tech innovation in the EU? With tech expert Andy O'Donoghue • 70% leave a new role in the first 12 months - why are firms still getting job descriptions and onboarding so wrong? Yes, according to Gary O'Keefe CEO Crewit Resourcing.

* How guest experience, lean management, innovation and employee feedback is driving the sustainability mission in the Tullamore Court Hotel - with Maree O'Brien The iNUA Collection. * Going the extra kilometre or two (hundred) to guarantee unrivalled customer service - with Paul Heavin and Derek Heavin of Topline Heavins & Euronics. * Fáilte Ireland, the national tourism development authority of Ireland, has approved €32 million in grants, under its EU just transition regenerative tourism and placemaking scheme which is set to offer support for tourism initiatives. Midlands 103 Courtney Callaghan spoke to Paddy Mathews, Head of Operations with Ireland's hidden Heartlands with Failte Ireland and he provided an insight into the scheme and more upcoming announcements. * Ideas Made Real is a Transition Year programme devised by Irish Manufacturing Research. Sponsored by Decotek Automotive, a recent awards event featured over 150 students from various local schools presenting innovative projects developed using advanced manufacturing technologies. With Lauren McDermott-Smith of IMR.

Offaly's Margaret Considine, CEO of the EQuita Group,a global business consultancy and corporate training company comes home to the midlands to discuss leadership development, entrepreneurship and the 7-steps to a well lived life. A Tullamore Regeneration Framework and Grand Canal Harbour Masterplan are now open for public consultation. Orla Martin and Jean Ryan will highlight key areas and objectives and invite you to have your say on the proposed plans. Paul O'Reilly of Watt Footprint Limited, winners of the Regional Finalist Award for the Mid East Region in the Local Enterprise Awards last month will detail how business owners can begin the journey to more sustainable, energy efficient and lean operations by utilising grant aid. However, pending legislation may cut-off access to such funds.

A digital health check for small businesses; demanding employees return to the office or else; an energy efficiency workshop and highlights from the Midlands 103 Customer Service Awards. Featuring John O'Shanahan of LeanBPI, Caroline Reidy of The HR Suite and Caroline Hofman of The Cube Low Carbon Centre of Excellence in Portlaoise.

Offaly precast concrete company picks up a major national award in recognition of continuous innovation and quality - with Tereas Rowan and Chris O'Reilly Creative Concrete Small Firms Association claims one-third of SMEs will shut within 6 months without funding - with Jonathan McDaid Head of Policy and Corporate Affairs. The role First Polymer Skillnet plays in keeping the industry at the forefront of technological developments in the medical device, automotive, packaging and manufacturing industries - with Catherine Collins Network Manager Sectoral reaction to pay increases for childcare sector after agreement reached last weekend from Regina Bushell of Grovelands Childcare.

• Irish exports to the Arab world have defied the global downturn, with a 2% increase in 2023, reaching over €3 billion - with Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce CEO Ahmad Younis. • Tullamore Food Fayre in Kilcruttin is celebrating its 10th anniversary and there's a bumper party arranged for Saturday 1st June! With Ray Dunne and Mark Smith. • Meet the Gamechangers, TY student entrepreneurs who raised private finances to get their business up and running and they're set to donate all proceeds to a local charity. • The latest CSO figures on numbers involved in agency work show that a job for life is most definitely a thing of the past, according to Geraldine King, CEO of Ireland's Employment and Recruitment Federation.