It was an evening celebrating the experience and innovation in the North West with lots of surprises and recognition for local businesses.
The awards were sponsored by Derry City and Strabane District Council and invited nominations from businesses and entrepreneurs operating within the council area.
The big winner of the evening in the Business/Entrepreneur of the Year category was Little Acorns Bookstore. Founded in 2010 by Jenni Doherty, Little Acorns Bookstore was borne of a market stall of 100 books. Now, the bookstore boasts a stock of over 45,000 books and has a strong online presence.
Congratulating the winners, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Sandra Duffy, said: “I want to extend my congratulations to all who were shortlisted for the North West Business Awards and all who picked up accolades this evening. These businesses are playing a hugely important role in driving the local economy and adding to the diversity of exciting products and services available here in the North West. They are an inspiration to anyone setting out in the business world. This is an exciting time for Derry and Strabane, with our City Deal plans afoot and the opportunities this will bring for both local business and those who choose to invest in our skilled and talented people.”
17. Chamber of Commerce - Awards
Jenni Doherty, Little Acorns Bookstore, winner of the Overall Business of the Year award at the North West Business Awards, pictured with her family and friends, Andrew, Ronan, Leona and Grainne.
18. Chamber of Commerce - Awards
Jenni Doherty, Little Acorns Bookstore who won Overall Business of the Year at the 2022 North West Business Awards held at the City Hotel on Friday past.
19. Chamber of Commerce - Awards
Kymirin Downey and Dearbhla McCaul, Safe Sippin’, runners up in the NW Young Business Person of the Year award, pictured with the award sponsor Declan Meenan of Alchemy.
20. Chamber of Commerce - Awards
Catherine McDermott of FinTrU, winners of the NW Large Business of the year, pictured with the award sponsor Leona McGee of Terex and FinTrU staff, John Maguire, Brandon Connelly, Taleesha Clarke, Kathleen McDermott, Michelle Breslin, Rebecca Hamilton, Teresa Chada, Ciaran Boyle, Jim Staton.