Globaltraded.com — Dublin – The Irish Exporters Association (IEA), the leading voice of the export industry in Ireland, has unveiled the shortlist for the 2024 Export Industry Awards. A total of 68 entries have been selected across 12 competitive categories, highlighting the excellence and innovation of Irish exporters. The awards ceremony, which is the association’s flagship event, will take place on Friday, 27th September 2024, at the Dublin Royal Convention Centre.
This year’s event is set to be a grand occasion, welcoming over 500 industry leaders, professionals, and international dignitaries. Attendees will also be treated to a special performance by world-renowned mentalist Keith Barry, adding a unique touch of entertainment to the prestigious black-tie affair.
The 2024 Export Industry Awards will honour 12 category winners, with the coveted title of 2024 Exporter of the Year being the highlight of the evening. This top accolade is sponsored by KPMG, reflecting the importance of this award within the industry.
Simon McKeever, Chief Executive of the Irish Exporters Association, expressed his enthusiasm about this year’s finalists: “I am delighted to announce that 68 entries have been shortlisted across 12 categories for our 2024 Export Industry Awards. Now in its 22nd year, the Export Industry Awards seek to recognise and celebrate the significant achievements of companies working in international trade, across the Island of Ireland.”
McKeever emphasized the high standards seen this year, noting, “Our independent judging panel was very impressed by the ingenuity and commitment shown by the high calibre of entries. We have seen businesses really place technology and innovation at the forefront of what they do, showcasing how these factors have helped them reach new heights of success.”
The 2024 awards also introduce two new categories: the Seafood Exporter of the Year Award and the All-Island Trade Award. These additions reflect the growing importance of Ireland’s seafood industry and the increasing integration of trade across the island. McKeever added, “I am delighted that this year’s Awards will highlight the immense success of Ireland’s seafood businesses, and that for the first time, the IEA Export Industry Awards will have a truly Island of Ireland dimension.”
The independent judging panel, chaired by Aidan Cotter, played a crucial role in evaluating the entries. McKeever expressed gratitude for their dedication, saying, “The Export Industry Awards would not be possible without the support and commitment of our Platinum and Category sponsors. A special mention must be reserved for Aidan Cotter, Chair, and to our entire independent panel of judges, for the time and effort they give to the judging process.”
The shortlisted companies now look forward to the black-tie Gala Dinner and Ceremony on 27th September, where they will be celebrated for their contributions to Ireland’s export success. The event will also serve as a networking opportunity for industry leaders, professionals, and international partners.
In the lead-up to the awards, the IEA will host a bespoke Alumni Masterclass on Monday, 17th June, at Trinity College Dublin. The theme of this year’s masterclass is “Driving Export Success with AI,” and it will be hosted by Trinity Executive Education at the Trinity Business School. This event is designed to provide attendees with insights into leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance their export strategies.
