The 2026 Clare Business Excellence Awards launched with energy and optimism at a packed networking breakfast hosted by Ennis Chamber at Hotel Woodstock. With Clare County Council returning as main sponsor, the event set the tone for a year of celebration, ambition, and community pride—values that MHP Sellors continues to champion as sponsor of the Best Family Business Award for the second year running.

As a firm with historic roots on Bindon Street in Ennis, MHP Sellors has supported family enterprises across Ireland for generations. Over many decades, the firm has advised family-owned businesses on growth, governance, succession planning, acquisitions, and the successful transition of businesses from one generation to the next. Through this experience, MHP Sellors has developed a deep appreciation of the vital role family businesses play in sustaining local communities and economies. It is this longstanding commitment to and understanding of family enterprise that makes sponsorship of the Best Family Business Award a natural fit for the firm, recognising and celebrating the businesses that preserve family values while building for future generations

A Celebration of Clare’s Business Spirit

For MHP Sellors, the annual awards are more than a ceremony—they’re a reflection of the resilience, innovation, and sheer talent powering Clare’s local economy. Marina Keane and Claire Benson represented the firm at the official launch, joining business leaders, community representatives, and Ennis Chamber CEO Margaret O’Brien in marking the beginning of this year’s programme.

MHP Sellors is no stranger to success on this stage. Having secured the Professional Services Excellence Award multiple times, most recently in 2024, MHP Sellors has long been recognised for its commitment to delivering top-tier legal and professional expertise. But as the team emphasises, true leadership means lifting others up—and that’s where the Best Family Business Award comes in.

Why Family Businesses Matter

Family-run enterprises are the heartbeat of County Clare. They anchor towns and villages, create local jobs, and preserve traditions while adapting to modern demands. From long-standing institutions to ambitious new ventures, these businesses embody trust, continuity, and community spirit.

As a firm with historic roots on Bindon Street in Ennis, MHP Sellors has supported family enterprises across Ireland for generations. The team understands the unique challenges these businesses face—from succession planning to balancing growth with family values—and recognises the extraordinary dedication required to thrive.

What the Award Celebrates

The Best Family Business Award shines a spotlight on enterprises that excel across five core pillars:

• Business Performance & Sustainability
• Family Involvement & Succession Planning
• Values & Company Culture
• Innovation & Adaptability
• Community & Social Responsibility

These pillars reflect the qualities that make family businesses not just successful, but indispensable to Clare’s social and economic fabric.

Announcement of Winners

This year Ennis Chamber received record number of entries for the Clare Business Excellence Awards. Independent adjudication is currently on-going. Award Winners will be announced at the Gala Awards Ceremony on Thursday 19^th November at The Rine Hotel (formerly the Inn at Dromoland).

A Continued Commitment

By sponsoring the Best Family Business Award for the second consecutive year, MHP Sellors reinforces its dedication to celebrating the enterprises that shape Clare’s identity. It’s a partnership rooted in pride, community, and a shared belief in the power of local business.

We would like to wish all 2026 Clare Business Excellence Award entrants the very Best of Luck.