WINNER 2010

Irish Exporters Association Awards (Emerging Markets)

2010 has been the most exciting year in business for the Irishman Brands. With Sales up 40% in 2010 they predict they will grow their business a further 150% by 2014. ‘The Hot Irishman’ has evolved  from a  domestically focused company 4 years ago with only 30% accounted by exports, to a situation today where  90% of its business is now export driven. They have grown export sales across 30 countries covering 5 continents. Key export markets include USA, Russia, France, Germany, and China. Other markets showing great potential are South Africa, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Australia and New Zealand.

According to Bernard Walsh (Company Managing Director) “We have a excellent and innovative team in our Brand Manager “Shane Fitzharris” and our export logistics manager “Geraldine Donoghue”. Together we have a systematic approach to opening and developing markets. Although, like every company, we set out each year with our “grand plan” we continue to refine and review it as we find market conditions change or new barriers to entry appear as is frequently the case for any export company particularly in the food and drink sector. Flexibility, persistence and patience in equal measures are crucial in overcoming trade barriers, in order for us to succeed as an exporter.”

The key reasons given why the Irishman Brands won the 2010 award for emerging markets in the Irish Exporters Association Awards are;

1. 1. 40% growth in exports in 2010
2. 2. 90% of turnover is accounted for by exports in 2010
3. 3. We produce all our products in Ireland
4. 4. We are successfully exporting to 30 countries including our most recent and most exciting to date; China.
5. 5. We have the ambition, drive and skills to grow our exports in the next 4 years by 150%
6. 6. We have a systematic approach to implementing our Sales and Marketing strategy
7. 7. For our range of authentic and innovative Irish Spirit brands covering Irish Coffee Liqueurs, Irish Whiskey and Irish Cream Liqueurs that are being successfully exported.

http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/finance/2010/1126/1224284181857.html?sms_ss=facebook&at_xt=4cefac1a82da30d6%2C0