​Newry firm Around Noon named as one of Ireland’s best companies

The awards programme is led by Deloitte Ireland, in association with Bank of Ireland. The company, which demonstrated superior business performance for the sixth time this year, was recognised at an awards ceremony on Thursday.

Around Noon was a Gold, requalifying winner in the awards. Founded in Newry over 30 years ago, it is one of the UK and Ireland’s fastest-growing food-to-go manufacturers. It produces an extensive range of chilled, hot, frozen and bakery products from five manufacturing sites across the UK and Ireland. It has facilities in Newry, Slough and North London and employs over 800 people.

Earlier this year, the company announced a series of major investments, including the acquisition of the London-based Soho Sandwich Company and the opening of a new factory in Slough.

Commenting on the award, Around Noon CEO, Gareth Chambers, said: “We really value the Deloitte Best Managed Companies recognition because winning shows that we are committed to being an exceptionally well-managed company that delivers for its customers, its team and the community.

"We are very proud of our fast-growth, but we are also extremely proud of doing it in a very well-managed way that ensures excellence in everything that we do.

"Winning the award is a great tribute to our team and I’d like to thank them for their ongoing commitment and hard work.”

Brian Murphy, Lead Partner for Ireland’s Best Managed Companies Awards Programme at Deloitte Ireland said: “This year we’re celebrating 15 years of the BMC programme and the incredible companies that have qualified.

"Even though this year’s cohort faced into another challenging period, over the past 15 years we’ve seen how indigenous Irish businesses find opportunities in change.

"Strengthening governance and recognising the value of specialist expert advice on critical areas such as ESG were key discussion points in the coaching sessions.

"We also saw companies increasingly focused on innovation driving internationalisation.

"Despite the uncertainties of the past few years, the confidence of Irish businesses is clear as more and more are scaling their market reach internationally”.

Nikki Canavan, Senior Director, Head of Origination & Sustainability, Corporate Banking Ireland, and judging panel member said: “Over the last number of years the companies in the Best Managed Companies network have shown huge strength in the face of disruption and uncertainty.

"This year in particular – a year that tested Irish businesses like never before – the judges noted the commitment, bravery, resilience and tenacity of the applicant companies.”

This year at the 15th annual awards ceremony, Deloitte recognised 130 indigenous companies representing 24 of the 32 counties across the island of Ireland.