Offaly businesses triumph at Midlands 103 annual hospitality awards

THE warmth and resilience of the Midlands hospitality industry took centre stage on Sunday, November 10, as over ninety unique businesses gathered at the Tullamore Court Hotel for the fifth annual Midlands 103 Hospitality Awards.

The sold-out gala ball was a night of celebration, reflection and recognition, with more than 350 guests in attendance and 88,000 daily listeners of Midlands 103 ensuring the achievements of the region’s finest venues and professionals were truly honoured.

Now in its fifth year, the Midlands 103 Hospitality Awards continue to shine a light on the individuals and businesses that make the region’s hotels, restaurants, bars and cafés such welcoming places to visit. From local family-run enterprises to luxury destinations, the event showcased the very best of hospitality across Laois, Offaly, Westmeath and beyond.

The evening began with a drinks reception before guests were seated for a four-course gala dinner and live entertainment. Emotions ran high as the prestigious Albert FitzGerald Lifetime Achievement Award was presented posthumously to the late Christy Maye, a beloved figure whose lifelong dedication to hospitality left an indelible mark on the industry and the community. His contribution, passion and kindness were remembered with heartfelt applause from all in attendance.

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Among the many deserving winners, County Arms Hotel Birr was crowned Overall Hotel of the Year, recognising its commitment to service excellence, continuous innovation and community engagement. Glasson Lakehouse took home the title of Wedding Venue of the Year, a testament to its breathtaking location, exceptional attention to detail and its reputation as one of Ireland’s most sought-after destinations for couples.

Scanlon’s Bar & Restaurant was celebrated as the Overall Pub of the Year, praised for its welcoming atmosphere, quality food and strong community spirit. Meanwhile, Bramley of Abbeyleix received the honour of Overall Restaurant of the Year, highlighting its dedication to locally sourced produce, culinary creativity and outstanding customer experience.

Each category in this year’s competition was independently assessed by an esteemed judging panel comprising Yvonne Carty, Hugh Wallace, Caz Mooney and Neil Kenna. Their expertise across culinary, design and business disciplines ensured every nomination was evaluated fairly and thoroughly, celebrating those who truly elevate the Midlands’ reputation for excellence.

Organiser of the event, Midlands 103 Business Development Manager Nathan Green expressed gratitude to all who supported the awards: “The Midlands hospitality industry represents the heart and soul of our communities. Tonight we celebrate those who have worked tirelessly to deliver memorable experiences, not just to visitors, but to the people who live and work here every day.”

The awards were proudly supported by Career Vision Recruiters, the Overall Sponsor for this year’s event. Managing Director Stuart O’Connor and his team attended on the night, underscoring their commitment to championing the Midlands hospitality community and recognising the outstanding talent within it.

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Guests were treated to an evening of entertainment, live music and celebration long into the night, reflecting the energy and camaraderie that define the hospitality sector across the region.

As the curtain closed on another successful year, Midlands 103 reaffirmed its dedication to celebrating the people and businesses who make the Midlands such a welcoming place to live, work and visit. With its fifth year marking a milestone in the event’s history, the Midlands 103 Hospitality Awards have firmly established themselves as one of the most prestigious recognitions in the region’s social and business calendar.

For the 88,000 daily listeners who helped make it happen, the message was clear – hospitality in the Midlands is thriving, and its future has never looked brighter.