Mayo company announced as Private Irish Business of the Year at National Awards

The Irish Exporters Association (IEA) on Friday night, announced the winners of the 2025 Export Industry Awards with Mayo's Portwest announced as Private Irish Business of the Year at the Export Industry Awards 2025.

Portwest, a family-owned business since 1904 is a global manufacturer of safety workwear, is managed by the 3rd and 4th generations of the Hughes family. With 12 distribution centres, sales in 165 countries, over 14,000 innovative safety products, and 22,000 SKU's, Portwest are proud to be demonstrating exceptional growth. The Mayo based company has over 5,700 staff globally.

With eleven high-profile companies winning awards across the 12 categories, this year saw one of the most competitive processes under the theme, “Navigating the Storm: Building Resilience, Adaptability, and Celebrating Success.” 

The IEA’s annual flagship event, a black-tie Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner with the who’s who of the export industry, professionals, local and international dignitaries in attendance, was moderated by Ken Hughes at the Dublin Royal Convention Centre.

Speaking at the Export Industry Awards, Simon McKeever, Chief Executive of the Irish Exporters Association, said: “It is an absolute pleasure to honour Portwest with this Award. Portwest are not just a leader in their sector, they are trailblazers, setting the standard for excellence, innovation, and resilience. In a world of increasing uncertainty, their continued success is a testament to their vision, dedication, and the vital role they play in driving Ireland’s economy forward. Tonight, we celebrate their achievements, their impact, and their unwavering commitment to excellence.”

Pictured above are Simon McKeever, CEO, Irish Exporters Association; Gabrielle White, President, Irish Exporters Association; Henry Hughes of Portwest, winner of Private Irish Business of the Year category, sponsored by An Post Commerce and Richard Miley, Head of Communication, Mails and Parcels, An Post at the Export Industry Awards 2025.

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