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Newry-based precision engineering firm The Exact Group has taken the Best Manufacturing and Engineering Business award at the Greater Newry Business Awards earlier this month. The company was recognised for its expertise in precision engineering and advanced cosmetic coatings, as well as its strong commitment to the local region whilst supporting global supply chains.
The judges were particularly impressed by The Exact Group's proactive approach to innovation and its work across high-growth sectors. Founded in 2007, the company has transformed from a small operation into a leading engineering firm, now operating from a 72,000 square foot facility at Craigmore Industrial Mill Estate in Newry. The firm supplies high-precision components and coatings for global aerospace clients and has expanded in recent years into med-tech, space and renewables sectors.
Stephen Cromie, owner and founder of The Exact Group, said: "We were delighted to be recognised in this year's Greater Newry Business Awards. At The Exact Group, we remain focused on understanding our customers' needs while continuously looking ahead to innovate and add value. Over the years, we have built strong customer relationships and consistently reinvested in the business, embracing new technologies and processes, including advanced ceramic coatings like CERAKOTE and our rapid-response service. This award reflects that ongoing mission and acknowledges the dedication of our highly skilled team. With such a high standard of entries showcasing the strength of local industry, being named among the winners is an incredible achievement and a real encouragement for us moving forward."
The company's Director of Operations, Ronan Callan, added: "This recognition is a testament to our team's expertise. By integrating machining, coatings, fabrication, and assembly under one roof, and investing in apprenticeships and training, we continue to deliver for our customers and build a future-ready workforce and facility."
The Exact Group's wide-ranging capabilities and diverse customer base continue to attract business to the region, highlighting the strength of local talent and the area's potential for growth. The company remains committed to ongoing development and investment, ensuring both the business and the local community benefit well into the future.
The Greater Newry Business Awards are a biennial celebration recognising and rewarding excellence across businesses and individuals in the Newry, Mourne and Down District. Organised by Newry Chamber, the awards shine a spotlight on innovation, performance, customer service and community impact. The Exact Group also sponsored the award category for Outstanding Contribution to the Greater Newry Area, which was presented to local charity Bolster Community. For more information about The Exact Group, visit https://exactgroupni.com/.
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A local employability partnership has been recognised as a finalist for the 'Best Business in the Community' Award at the Greater Newry Business Awards 2025, following its success in helping over 1,000 people into employment since its launch in April 2023.
Employ Me, a skills and employability collaboration between Southern Regional College (SRC), Clanrye Group, Women's Aid Armagh Down and Community Advice Newry, Mourne and Down, was shortlisted for the award at the Newry Chamber Greater Newry Business Awards last month. The Whistledown Hotel in Warrenpoint won the award on the night.
Speaking on Employ Me's shortlisting for the award, Mrs Lee Campbell, Principal and Chief Executive of Southern Regional College commented: "We are immensely proud that Employ Me was recognised as a finalist for the 'Best Business in the Community' Award at the Greater Newry Business Awards 2025. This shortlisting reflects the dedication of our staff and partner organisations in creating real opportunities for people who face significant barriers to employment. Employ Me is not just a programme - it is a pathway to skills, confidence, and brighter futures. It has changed lives within the local area, and its success demonstrates what is possible when the voluntary, community and education sectors work together."
The partnership combines the skills and experience of four unique organisations to support residents within the Newry, Mourne and Down and Armagh, Banbridge, Craigavon council areas into employment, whilst recognising that returning to the workforce is not a straightforward process but one that requires training, wraparound support and employment skills guidance.
Since the launch of the programme in April 2023, the partnership has made a real impact in the local community, supporting 2,227 people to achieve their individual goals. As of September 2025, the partnership has successfully helped 1,032 into employment and guided more than 1,200 individuals to gain a qualification or complete a course aligning with their interests.
The partnership has continued to address employability needs within the community, launching specific courses where a demand for skills has been identified. Current courses include welding, nail technologies, food hygiene and Construction Skills Register (CSR) card. The partnership seeks to look beyond templates and understand the person and address their individual needs and pain points, fast tracking referrals with external services and providing specialist support to meet the needs of individual learners.
The partnership enjoyed success earlier this year when it picked up the "Team of the Year" award at the Irish News Workplace and Employment Awards at Titanic Belfast.
Mr Liam Devine, Chief Executive Officer at Clanrye Group added: "Employ Me shows what can be achieved when our community comes together with a shared purpose. This finalist position is recognition is not just for the programme, but for every individual, family, and organisation who has played a part in its success."
Kellie Murray, CEO Community Advice Newry, Mourne and Down said: "At Community Advice Newry Mourne and Down, we see every day the barriers people face when trying to move forward. Employ Me has shown what's possible when organisations come together providing real, individual support that changes lives across our community."
Eileen Murphy, CEO of Women's Aid Armagh Down further added: "The physical and psychological impact of domestic abuse creates profound barriers for women seeking to enter, or re-enter education and employment. This partnership project is pivotal in breaking down those barriers. It enables us to deliver the specialist support women need to rebuild confidence, gain new skills, and move toward independence. The outcomes we are already witnessing demonstrate how vital this collaboration is for lasting social and economic change."
The Employ Me partnership, continues to make a significant difference to employment prospects and skills development across the local area.
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Local entrepreneurs are gearing up to pitch their business ideas at a special event in Newcastle next month, with the winner securing £1,000 and a spot at the regional final where they could bag an additional £5,000 in investment.
Eleven hopefuls from across Newry, Mourne and Down have made the shortlist for the 'Go Succeed: The Ultimate Pitch' local heat, which takes place 15 October at the Slieve Donard Hotel in Newcastle.
The finalists represent a diverse range of business ideas. Ruchira Radhe Rangaprasad will be pitching Fibre First+, which provides daily nutrition sachets, while Sean Yalcin has developed AIMA OPEX, an AI-powered factory platform that prevents mistakes, cuts costs and boosts competitiveness. Kate Boyd runs a private skin clinic and will be hoping to impress the judges with her pitch.
Sarah McKiernan from Building It Better NI, an all-female DIY and construction training programme, is also through to the local heat, alongside Garrett Rafferty of Agri Comply, a digital compliance tool to simplify slurry compliance. Stuart Henry has developed Equipple, an EdTech platform that streamlines parent-teacher meetings and will be presenting his idea on the night.
Brendan Carragher of UNeed Power, which converts waste tyres into energy, is joined by Paul McCreery from Fibre UP, which sells soft drinks high in fibre, and Conrad Madden of Gift Wrap 4U. Rounding out the line-up are Paul Smiton, who has devised an equine safety release bar, and Hugh Patrick Morgan of Antigenesis, which develops antibody therapies for pets.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson Councillor Philip Campbell said: "Many congratulations to all those that have made the local heat of Go Succeed: The Ultimate Pitch. The incredible number of entries from across the Newry, Mourne, and Down district illustrates the depth of entrepreneurial talent locally and shows just what an achievement it is to have been shortlisted. We wish the very best of luck to all finalists, and to all those entrepreneurs that took the time to enter. The future of our local economy is obviously in very safe hands."
Heat winners from each of Northern Ireland's 11 councils will progress to The Ultimate Pitch regional final at Seamus Heaney HomePlace in Bellaghy on 19 November. The overall winner at the regional final will receive the Go Succeed Ultimate Pitch Award, £5,000 investment and a prize package including a photography session supplied by Brian Thompson Photography, podcast recording session supplied by Attention X Studio NI, membership of Toastmasters and a media training session supplied by LK Communications.
Winners of sub-categories at the regional final, which include the Go Succeed Impact Award for the best social enterprise, the Go Succeed Inclusive Entrepreneurship Award and the Go Succeed Rising Star Award for the most inspiring 16–25-year-old entrepreneur, will also receive £1,500 towards their business idea. Members of the public will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite regional finalist to win the People's Choice Award, sponsored by Ardmore Group, with the winner also receiving a £1,500 cash prize.
Go Succeed is funded by the UK Government and delivered by Northern Ireland's 11 councils. The service supports entrepreneurs, new starts and existing businesses with easy-to-access advice and support, including mentoring, masterclasses, peer networks, access to grant funding and business planning, at every stage of their growth journey. More information is available at www.go-succeed.com.
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The Haldane Group headquarters in Newry played host to senior figures from the Bank of England this week, as part of a regional outreach visit to hear firsthand from businesses on the ground about the current economic climate.
Huw Pill, Chief Economist and member of the Monetary Policy Committee, along with Nathanaël Benjamin, Executive Director for Financial Stability Strategy and Risk, met with Executive Chairman David Haldane, Chief Executive Officer Charles Burns, and Newry Site Manager, Rob Haldane, a fourth-generation shareholder. The visitors got a tour of the Carnbane site, which serves as the largest hub for the company's timber importing, manufacturing, and distribution operations.
The Haldane Group is one of Northern Ireland's largest independent builders' merchants, operating 23 branches across Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, and England. Founded in Newry in 1946 by Bob Haldane, the family-owned business has grown into a market leader, recording £165 million turnover in 2023 and employing over 720 staff.
David Haldane said: "We were delighted to welcome Mr Pill and Mr Benjamin to Newry. Their visit is an important recognition of the contribution businesses in Northern Ireland — and Newry in particular — make to the UK economy. We value the opportunity to share our perspective on the business environment and highlight our continued investment in people, outstanding customer service, and growth."
Recent growth at the group has seen a £500k upgrade to its Bangor branch, improvements to the Newry Roof Truss plant, and a major £3M redevelopment of the Ballymena branch. The group is committed to sustainability, with solar panels across sites and an electric forklift fleet helping to reduce carbon emissions.
Speaking about the current business environment, Mr Haldane noted that whilst rising costs, supply chain pressures, and fluctuations in demand remain challenges, there are significant opportunities ahead. "With continued investment in housing, infrastructure, and the transition to greener building solutions, we see real potential for growth. For independent merchants like The Haldane Group, our strength lies in combining scale with excellent local customer service, digitisation, improved customer satisfaction, and nurturing our team of talent — enabling us to adapt quickly and support customers as the market evolves."
Huw Pill said he found the visit to Haldane Fisher "fascinating and insightful", adding: "It was very valuable to hear about the Group's exciting growth plans and to discuss the economic conditions they and the wider sector are currently facing".
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Newry Private Clinic has officially joined Kingsbridge Health Group in a move that the clinic say will boost private healthcare provision in the area and give local patients access to a wider range of services.
The Windsor Hill-based clinic has built up a solid reputation for consultant-led care spanning over 50 specialisms. Last year it secured Independent Private Hospital registration from the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority, meaning it can now carry out minor surgical procedures on-site and play a bigger role in supporting the wider health system. Since taking over in 2021, husband-and-wife team David and Laura McCaul have pumped £2 m into refurbishing and expanding the clinic, creating modern facilities that serve patients from both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The pair will stay on at the Newry clinic and continue working with the team to develop services and look after patients.
Laura McCaul, Manager Newry Private Clinic said, "We are excited about this next chapter for Newry Private Clinic. Joining Kingsbridge allows us to build on what we have achieved. It also ensures our patients can access an even greater range of services, delivered to the highest standards of care."
The partnership with The Mid Ulster Clinic will see new facilities installed including MRI, mammography, dexa scanning and day case treatment space. The Mid Ulster site will allow Kingsbridge to expand its women's health services to more people and bring increased private healthcare provision to the mid Ulster area.
For Kingsbridge, these two developments represent a major step forward, strengthening the group's footprint in new locations and backing up its commitment to delivering quality healthcare right across Ireland. Patients will get better access to Kingsbridge's expertise, resources and referral pathways, taking in women's health services, additional diagnostics and specialist treatments. This includes a new state-of-the-art imaging centre that's recently opened at the Newry clinic.
The expansion also ties into wider health priorities. By offering more consultations and procedures locally, Newry Private Clinic will help take pressure off NHS waiting lists. Its border location makes it particularly valuable for cross-border health initiatives, with patients from both sides of the border benefiting from faster access to consultant-led care through recognised cross-border schemes and health insurers.
Mark Regan, CEO Kingsbridge Healthcare Group added, "We are delighted to welcome Newry Private Clinic to the Kingsbridge family and to formally establish a partnership with The Mid Ulster Clinic. Both these clinics reputation, team and strong community links make them a natural fit for our vision for fast access to five-star care right across this region."
Work on bringing the new services to The Mid Ulster Clinic got underway this week, with both clinics now set to play a bigger role in the region's healthcare landscape.
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With a nationwide book revival well under way, there's no better time than now for Newry City to get its first independent general bookshop in many years.
Anthony Reavey and his daughter Niamh from Whitecross decided just a few short weeks ago to open a bookshop and this Friday, 10 October 'The Bookshelf' will open its doors to the public at 2 Monaghan Street. It has been a long time since you could browse through the books at McGuigans bookshop in Mill Street!
Anthony who has worked in financial services for many years explains how it came about "I was away on holidays, and I went in to a beautiful bookshop in Geneva and when I came home I was talking to my daughter and I said, I'd love to own a bookshop like that. And she says to me, right let's do it, Let's lock it in, and literally within two hours we had found premises down Monaghan Street. When we went to get a look at them, by accident we happened to see that this one was also for rent. The very next day, I went out to view it with the landlord, shook her hand and did the deal. So within less than two days of the idea popping into our heads we had the premises. That was only five weeks ago."
Once they decided they were going to do it, the race was on to be open for the Christmas season and they have been working day and night to decorate and stock the shop for the official opening this Friday.
Location wise The Bookshelf is in one of the most prominent locations in the city. Anthony said "I think this is the best location I could have possibly got. There's no other shop in this town that I can think of that would have suited better. You've got the best coffee shop in Newry next door and the bookshop and the coffee shop will complement each other. Monaghan Street is a busy street at all times."
Anthony adds "There's not that many shops left that people can go in for a wee browse, spend a bit of time and sit down and have a look at what's there. Bookshops are making a comeback. People are making an attempt to get away from their phone and get back to looking at books.
"When people come in they can expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere. People can come in, take their coat off, they can sit down, and relax. A few chairs sitting about and if they want to lift a few books off the shelf and flick through them, they can do that at their leisure. And if they buy them, great, or if they put them back on the shelf, that's okay too"
There'll be lots of local interest books and with plenty of young families about there will be a large selection for children. "We can't do absolutely everything but if we haven't got what a person is looking for, we can get it ordered 48 hours guaranteed. If you're shopping online, you will you already know what the name of the book is before you order it whereas, if you come in here, you might come in for something in particular, but then something else may catch your eye - it's just bringing back old fashioned browsing." said Anthony.
He added "I didn't realise that there's so many local authors around Newry that have written books. So many people have been messaging me asking will you take our book in your shop? And I message them all back, saying, yes, absolutely, we'll do a wee event here for you, if you like. We're also planning on doing evening events, book signing events, poetry nights, music nights etc"
Anthony can't quite believe how popular the idea of a new bookshop in Newry has been. "I put up that Facebook post last Thursday, less than a week ago and the messages have just been unbelievable. Everybody seems to be excited "
The Bookshelf is opening this Friday 10 October at 12 noon and all are most welcome. There'll be an official tape cutting with decorations from Balloons and Arch Deco, Mayobridge.
If you buy a book this Friday or Saturday, just bring your receipt into Grounded next door for a free coffee.
Opening Hours are 9am to 6pm Monday to Saturday with late night opening on Fridays to 8pm.
On Saturday at 12/1pm there will be kids story time from Erin Reavey. At 3pm the Ulster Championship Whitecross Scor musicians will play music for an hour. There will also be treats and competitions on the day as well as face painting.
Check out their Facebook page at www.facebook.com
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Newry-based sports technology company STATSports has been acquired by Sony Corporation in a deal that sees the local firm join one of the world's largest technology and entertainment industry's.
Founded in Newry in 2008, STATSports has grown to become one of the industry's top names in athlete monitoring and performance analysis, with its technology now used by over 800 elite sports teams worldwide. The company's client list reads like a who's who of global sport, including Arsenal FC, Liverpool FC, Manchester City, Juventus, and national football teams such as England and Portugal. The firm also works with rugby giants like the New Zealand All Blacks and South Africa Springboks, alongside American sports franchises including the Washington Commanders and LA Dodgers.
In addition to its global headquarters in Northern Ireland, STATSports has expanded internationally with offices in London, Chicago, Florida and Melbourne.
The acquisition sees Sony take a majority stake in the Newry company, integrating STATSports' wearable tracking technology with Sony's existing sports data platforms. STATSports specialises in GPS-enabled wearable devices fitted with heart rate and accelerometer sensors, delivering more than 70 real-time performance metrics that provide immediate feedback to coaches and athletes.
Alan Clarke, CEO and Co-Founder of STATSports, described the deal as "a landmark moment" for the company. He said the partnership with Sony would allow STATSports to accelerate its mission of helping teams and athletes reach their full potential, whilst setting new standards in performance analysis, athlete development, and injury prevention.
Sony's sports portfolio already includes Hawk-Eye Innovations and KinaTrax, which use optical tracking technologies for officiating and performance analysis. The addition of STATSports' wearable technology creates what Sony describes as a comprehensive tracking solution spanning both optical and wearable systems across major sports. Beyond serving elite clubs, STATSports has also pioneered making professional-grade technology accessible to grassroots clubs and individual athletes, bridging the gap between professional and amateur sport.
A true Newry success story.
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A new locally based dedicated Virtual Assistant and media service has been launched in the district. Gorman Graphics Media based in Camlough is run by Karyn Feehan and the new enterprise is offering social media management, graphic design and virtual assistance to help local businesses save time, grow and strengthen their brand presence.
Karyn is already working with a range of local businesses and charities across the area including Caring Coins Association, Strike Back Self Defence Newry, Versaffix, Connex, Emerald Nutrition and Marty's School of Motoring.
The business carries a special significance as it was originally envisioned by Karyn's late grandfather, Jim Gorman, a well-known charitable figure in the area. Jim wrote 'In the Shadow of the Arches', a book full of stories and illustrations of Newry and surrounding areas, and created posters, logos, murals and more. When Karyn's nanny was diagnosed with MS, Jim stepped away from the business to care for her and later fundraised to establish the RAMS Centre in Newry, which offers oxygen therapy for those living with MS.
With over six years of experience, Karyn is now carrying her grandfather's vision forward. "I aim to help businesses focus on what they do best, while we take care of the jobs and tasks they don't want to do," says Karyn. "Our approach is professional, friendly and tailored to each client's vision."
Gorman Graphics Media is currently offering a free 30-minute discovery call for businesses interested in exploring how the company can support their growth. For more information, visit www.gormangraphicsmedia.com or book a call at calendly.com
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Staff at both Lidl stores in Newry have helped raise over £20,000 for Lidl NI charity partner Age NI by taking part in a mammoth two-week spinathon challenge last month. The fundraiser saw dedicated store teams pedal more than 17,850km on static bikes to raise vital funds for the organisation that supports older people in Northern Ireland.
Each store was challenged to complete 350km, with three stores participating daily over a two-week period, reaching a combined total of 1,050km per day.
Customers donated generously through cash buckets and online QR code donations, while Age NI representatives were present in stores throughout the campaign to raise awareness and cheer on participants. This year's inaugural Age NI charity spinathon is the first in-store event of its kind for Lidl Northern Ireland and follows the retailer's Trolley Dash fundraiser which last Christmas bagged more than £75,000 in funding for the charity and saw 43 lucky shoppers win their Christmas shop.
Gordon Cruikshanks, Regional Managing Director at Lidl Northern Ireland, said the company was incredibly proud of teams across Northern Ireland who went above and beyond to support Age NI. "Every store showed amazing energy and commitment, and it was inspiring to see our colleagues and customers come together for such an important cause," he said.
Linda Robinson, Chief Executive of Age NI, said the organisation was thrilled to be working with Lidl Northern Ireland. "The enthusiasm and generosity shown by Lidl staff and customers has been truly heartwarming. Every pound raised will help Age NI continue to change how we age, providing vital services and support to older people across Northern Ireland, helping them stay connected, independent and valued."
Over the course of the three-year partnership, Lidl Northern Ireland has pledged to raise £500,000 in support of Age NI's services which tackle key challenges facing older people in Northern Ireland, from isolation and financial pressure to access to health and wellbeing services. For more information, visit lidl-ni.co.uk or ageuk.org.uk.
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