EPS scoop prestigious family business award
THE multi-award winning Mallow-based international water solutions giant EPS has made another addition to its already bulging trophy cabinet after scooping a prestigious national double.
In addition to being named the winner of the Manufacturing and Engineering gong at the inaugural Energia Family Business Awards the company, which this year is celebrating 50 years since its foundation, also took silver in the Fastest Growing Family Business category.
The new awards celebrate the efforts of family run enterprises in helping to shape the Irish business landscape, with more than 200 businesses vying for accolades across 18 different categories.
EPS was the most nominated company at the awards ceremony in Dublin’s Mansion House, with six nominations, going up against stiff opposition from some of the country’s biggest and most recognisable industry names, an accomplishment not lost on EPS managing director Patrick Buckley.
“It was wonderful to hear EPS Group being mentioned alongside such well-known brands as Dawn Meats, Flahavans, Height for Hire and Ballymaloe House. It was also a great opportunity to meet other family business owners, hear their stories and share in their successes”, said Mr Buckley.
He said that winning the top award on the night was recognition that the company’s recent investment decisions were reaping rewards.
“Our strategy during the downturn to invest in our Centre for Design and Manufacturing Excellence has proven to be a worthwhile and essential decision to ensure the future sustainability of the business. It’s a constant challenge for companies in the manufacturing, engineering and construction space to remain competitive,” said Mr Buckley.
He said that with constant downward pressure on margins, an increasing number of competitors in their market and the imminent challenges of Brexit, having modern technology and facilities help to future proof business, secure jobs and “keeps us in a position to add value to our customers.”
“The award is great recognition for the entire team and their efforts in this regard and we are particularly thrilled to have these efforts recognised at national level. It’s especially great timing for us to win an award focussing on the family element of the business as we mark our 50th anniversary,” said Mr Buckley.