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AIB's Newry branch has introduced a range of new accessibility measures to better support customers with non-visible disabilities, communication challenges or additional needs, as part of a wider rollout across all AIB branches in the north.
The initiatives include recognition of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower and the introduction of Speak Easy Communication Cards, both of which are now available in every AIB branch.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a discreet symbol that allows customers with non-visible disabilities to indicate that they may need extra time, understanding or support. AIB colleagues have received training to recognise the Sunflower and respond appropriately.
Speak Easy Communication Cards are designed for customers who find verbal communication difficult, offering a straightforward way to indicate banking needs without having to speak. The cards cover a range of common queries and services, with a digital version also available through the AIB website.
These measures sit alongside existing accessibility supports already in place across AIB's Northern Ireland network. All AIB ATMs and Cash and Cheque Lodgement machines in Northern Ireland now offer audio guidance for cash withdrawals, balance enquiries, mini statements and PIN services. Language interpretation and translation services are available in all branches, and autism-friendly supports, underpinned by colleague training, have been introduced to assist neurodivergent customers.
Brian Gillan, Head of AIB NI, said: "These enhanced measures work in tandem with our existing accessibility and inclusion programmes to make sure that banking is accessible to everyone, regardless of their individual circumstances. By recognising the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower and providing Speak Easy Cards, we are taking practical steps to break down barriers and support our customers with dignity and understanding. Our commitment is to ensure that every person who enters our branches feels respected and empowered."
Sinéad Lucey Brennan, Director for Ireland and Northern Ireland at Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, welcomed the partnership: "I was thrilled to learn that AIB wanted to join us here at the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. The entire Sunflower team in Ireland aspires to ensure that all people with non-visible disabilities, whether staff or customers and those who choose to wear the Sunflower, are given help, understanding, patience and extra time if they need it when accessing financial services. Our values are so well aligned with AIB that it made complete sense to work together with them."
For more information on the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, visit hdsunflower.com/irl
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Advertorial
Local Eats Expands Across Ireland And It Could Be Your Opportunity
If you have ever considered starting your own business but were not sure where to begin, a new opportunity launching across the island of Ireland may be worth a closer look.
Local Eats, a fast growing food ordering platform often compared to Just Eat but with a strong local first approach, is expanding and offering a limited number of exclusive franchise licences in towns across the country.
A “Business in a Box” Ready in Weeks, Not Months
Since launching in the UK in 2020, Local Eats has helped hundreds of people build their own income streams within their local communities.
Now, entrepreneurs from Newry and surrounds have the chance to do the same.
The model is designed to remove many of the traditional barriers to starting a business. With a one off setup cost of £6,000, franchisees receive everything needed to launch a fully operational food ordering platform in their area, typically within six weeks.
That includes:
“We provide the software and the know how. It is essentially a business in a box,” says Local Eats COO Oliver Jackson, who also started as the company’s first franchisee.
“You are guided through exactly what to do, when to do it, and how to grow.”
Focus on Growth Not Admin
One of the biggest advantages of the model is how much of the heavy lifting is handled centrally.
Customer service, payments, and back end systems are all managed by Local Eats head office, allowing franchisees to focus on what really drives growth, building relationships with local restaurants and promoting the platform in their area.
“You are not tied to your phone or inbox all day,” Jackson explains. “We handle the admin. The person on the ground focuses on growing the business locally.”
A Flexible Opportunity for Full Time or Side Income
For many, flexibility is a key draw.
Local Eats is not just for full time entrepreneurs. It is also designed to work alongside existing careers.
“Some of our franchisees run this as a side business, while others grow it into their main income,” says Jackson. “It suits people who want to build something of their own, but on their own terms.”
That flexibility has made it particularly appealing to professionals looking to:
Why Restaurants Are Signing Up
For local restaurants, the appeal is straightforward. Lower costs and a more personal service.
Local Eats offers significantly lower commission rates than major national platforms, with no upfront sign up fees, making it an easy and low risk addition for takeaway owners.
For example, a takeaway processing around 200 orders per week could save hundreds of pounds. That money can be reinvested into staff, rent, or customer offers.
Importantly, restaurants do not need to leave existing platforms.
“Most of our partners run us alongside other apps,” says Jackson. “It is an easy win for them. More orders and lower fees.”
Built for Independent, Local Businesses
While major delivery platforms often focus on large chains, Local Eats is designed with independent businesses in mind.
From cafés and takeaways to butchers and bakeries, the platform reflects the diversity of local food scenes, something that resonates strongly in towns and smaller cities.
“There is a real appetite for supporting local” Jackson says. “People care about where their money goes.”
A Local Business Run by Local People
Unlike global platforms, Local Eats is built around a simple idea. Local people running local businesses and serving their own communities.
That means franchisees are not just operators. They become visible and active members of the local economy.
From visiting restaurants in person to supporting community initiatives, the model encourages owners to build genuine relationships on the ground.
“We always say, do not hide behind a laptop,” Jackson adds. “Get out there, meet people, be part of the community. That is what makes this work.”
Limited Opportunities Now Available
As Local Eats rolls out across Ireland, franchise licences are being offered on an exclusive one per area basis, meaning availability is limited.
For those considering a move into business ownership, whether as a side project or a long term venture, this could be a timely opportunity to get in early.
Interested in finding out more?
Register your interest today and check if your area is still available.
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Accident management company CRASH Services has expanded its vehicle fleet to 600, a significant milestone for a business that started out in Newry with just three cars in 1996. The company, which has supported more than 150,000 motorists across Northern Ireland, says the expansion reflects a sharp rise in demand following the return of pre-pandemic traffic levels.
David Irwin, Fleet and Transport Team Leader at CRASH Services, said the growth was a direct response to increased activity on Northern Ireland's roads. He said: "As traffic levels have returned to and even surpassed pre-pandemic volumes, we've seen a sharp rise in demand for our services. Expanding our fleet to 600 vehicles ensures we can continue to meet that demand, keeping our promise of getting customers back on the road without delay."
Mr Irwin added: "At CRASH, we pride ourselves on providing a compassionate, professional, and reliable service. Our customers trust us to take care of everything from vehicle recovery and replacement to managing repairs, claims, and legal or medical support. Most importantly, our service comes at no cost to the customer."
The fleet covers a wide range of vehicle types, including standard cars, prestige models, vans, 4x4s, taxis and dual-control vehicles, with the aim of providing a like-for-like replacement for every driver. The company has also expanded its recovery lorry provision to support faster pick-up and delivery across Northern Ireland.
Paula Maloney, Marketing Director at CRASH Services, paid tribute to the staff behind the operation. She said: "None of this would be possible without our dedicated staff, who work tirelessly to keep our fleet clean, safe, and ready for customers. Their commitment is what keeps our reputation strong as we continue to grow."
CRASH Services operates across four offices in Newry, Belfast, Derry and a vehicle depot in Mallusk, with a workforce of over 100 staff.
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A charity football match in Newry has officially launched the second year of the PLAYR-FIT Business 5s Football Event, with all proceeds going to Evora Hospice. The annual 11-a-side fixture between the PLAYR-FIT team and a select Evora Hospice side took place on Friday 15 May, with participants making donations to the hospice on the day.
The Business 5s tournament itself will be held at the Newry City Cages on 5 and 12 June, with more than 30 businesses and over 250 participants expected to compete across the two weeks. Teams will wear bespoke jerseys designed and supplied by PLAYR-FIT, and all proceeds from the event will go directly to Evora Hospice to support the care and services the charity provides in the community.
The tournament has grown year on year, attracting greater community involvement and raising increasing funds for the hospice and those who work and volunteer there.
Sponsors continue to support the event by providing food, drinks and refreshments for participants and supporters. DELI LITES and Rocwell Water return as sponsors for another year, while S&W Wholesale has joined as a new partner in 2026.
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Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has reopened its £3 million Office Development Grant Scheme, aimed at encouraging private sector investment in high-quality Grade A office space in Newry City Centre. The scheme forms part of the wider Belfast Region City Deal programme of investment.
Funded through the Northern Ireland Executive via the Department for Communities, the grant is designed to incentivise developers and property owners to invest in Grade A office accommodation, with the broader goals of economic development, job creation and urban regeneration in Newry.
Newry's position on the Dublin-Belfast Economic Corridor makes it particularly attractive to firms needing dual-market access, particularly in sectors such as logistics, financial services, legal services and consultancy. As the city continues to grow across the regional economy, demand for high-quality, sustainable and technologically advanced workspace is increasing.
The scheme is open to standalone office developments as well as multi-use developments that combine Grade A office space with residential, retail or leisure elements. It will support both new build projects and the reuse of vacant or derelict buildings, in line with the Council's commitment to environmental sustainability and energy-efficient workspaces. Eligible developments will also be expected to meet modern workplace expectations around hybrid working, employee wellbeing and corporate image.
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said: "The Department for Communities welcomes the opening of the second tranche of the Grade A Office Development Grant Scheme. It represents a significant opportunity for new companies to establish themselves in the city and for existing ones to expand their footprint, creating new jobs that will boost the local economy and foster sustainable urban regeneration."
Council Chairperson Councillor Philip Campbell said: "This Belfast Region City Deal investment is one of several initiatives that the Council has in place to promote Newry, Mourne and Down as a place that business can invest and prosper in. Newry has a premier location along the Dublin-Belfast Economic Corridor. By creating the right market conditions, the Office Development Grant Scheme aims to attract new investors who will see the value of having Newry City as a base which allows them to easily connect to the whole island's economy."
The scheme will remain open for applications until 20 November 2026, though interested developers and businesses are encouraged to make early contact to allow sufficient time to prepare design proposals and planning applications. Council officers will be available for one-to-one consultations and will host information sessions in the coming months to help potential applicants understand the scheme's requirements, covering planning, sustainability standards and business case expectations.
Full details, including criteria, applicant guidance notes and information on upcoming sessions, are available at www.newrymournedown.org
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Infrastructure and Economy Ministers heard directly from Newry businesses about the opportunities and obstacles facing the Greater Newry area at a Chamber event in Warrenpoint last week with Economy Minister, Caoimhe Archibald saying the area is 'uniquely positioned' to benefit from cross border trade.
The 'Meet The Ministers' Corporate Patrons event, held at The Whistledown Hotel, Warrenpoint on 21 May, was organised by Newry Chamber and supported by S&W Wholesale, The Exact Group, Kilmorey Care and Southern Regional College. It gave more than 40 of the Chamber's Corporate Patrons the chance to meet with Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins MLA and Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald MLA to discuss the economic and infrastructure challenges facing businesses in the greater Newry area.
The event centred on the theme of developing greater Newry into a sustainable economic powerhouse on the Dublin-Belfast Corridor, with both Ministers taking questions from attendees on a broad range of issues including dual market access, the rates burden, skills development, planning reform, wastewater funding and regional balance in local economic partnerships.
Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald MLA highlighted Newry's position at the heart of the Dublin-Belfast Economic Corridor, noting that cross-border trade on the island of Ireland has reached a record £14.6 billion, with £2.2 billion, some 15 per cent of the total, attributable to Newry, Mourne and Down. She said: "The All-Ireland economy is thriving, and Dual Market Access provides us with an internationally competitive advantage. At the heart of the Dublin-Belfast Economic Corridor, Newry is uniquely positioned to benefit from this."
A panel discussion followed the ministerial session, with contributions from Anthony McVeigh of S&W Wholesale, Ronan Callan of The Exact Group, Cathal O'Neill of Kilmorey Care and Lee Campbell of Southern Regional College. Each of the organisations represented has committed to significant expansion plans in the greater Newry area and, despite facing considerable obstacles, each panellist expressed confidence that the region has a positive economic future if key infrastructure and strategic planning needs can be met by the NI Executive, with the support of the Irish and UK governments.
Dr Conor Patterson, President of Newry Chamber, said: "Newry Chamber is delighted to have welcomed both the Infrastructure Minister, Liz Kimmins MLA and Economy Minister, Caoimhe Archibald MLA to The Whistledown Hotel for a discussion on the issues impacting our local economy and how we can work collaboratively with the NI Executive to realise the ambitions of the Greater Newry Area."
He added: "Today's event provided a platform for positive engagement with two local Ministers and explored how we can unlock Newry's significant economic potential through collaboration between business, NI Government Departments and Governments in Dublin and London."
Michael Savage, CEO of Newry Chamber, said: "Greater Newry is on the cusp of a decade of huge economic opportunity if the significant challenges we face around infrastructure, skills and Government supports can be overcome through a collaborative approach between business and NI Executive Ministers."
Mr Savage added: "Our strategic location on the border on the Dublin-Belfast Economic Corridor provides businesses in Greater Newry with exciting opportunities around Dual Market Access. The Chamber will continue to work closely with local Ministers to find solutions to unlock and realise our economic potential and continue to work on potential cross-border funding solutions to meet the challenges we face particularly around wastewater capacity."
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins MLA pointed to recent investment in the Belfast-Dublin Enterprise rail service, including a £548m fleet upgrade with around £200 million coming from her Department, as evidence of progress on cross-border connectivity. She also reaffirmed her commitment to the A1 junctions and Southern Relief Road, describing both as hugely beneficial for the Greater Newry area. On wastewater, she said she was pleased that NI Water had identified new solutions to unlocking connections in the Newry area, providing capacity for approximately 400 new connections covering both housing and business premises and enabling development for up to ten years based on currently identified projects.
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Entries are now open for the Greater Newry Business Awards 2026, with Newry Chamber announcing 23 categories are available to enter including two brand new additions. The Gala Awards Night where the winners will be announced will take place on Thursday 24 September at the Canal Court Hotel in Newry.
Now in its 11th edition, the biennial awards have been recognising business success in the Newry area since 2004. This year's event is supported by Principal Sponsors Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and NIE Networks.
Two new categories have been added for 2026: Best Healthcare & Wellbeing Business and Best Construction Sector Business. Entry is free, and any business or organisation within the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council area can enter up to four categories.
Conor Patterson, President of Newry Chamber, said: "Newry Chamber is proud to launch the Greater Newry Business Awards 2026. As a Chamber, we are immensely proud of the businesses across our district who have made the region synonymous with entrepreneurship, innovation, excellent service, product quality and customer care."
He added: "I know that the energy, innovation and resilience that our local businesses exhibit each and every day will help propel our region to even bigger and better things. Sometimes in this part of the world, we don't take the time to acknowledge just how amazing and exceptional we are and that's what these awards are all about."
The awards offer local businesses a chance to benchmark quality, examine how they are perceived by customers and measure themselves against competitors. Recognition also supports employee morale and can improve overall company performance.
Peter McClenaghan, Head of Communications & Engagement at NIE Networks, said: "NIE Networks are proud to be a Principal Sponsor of the 2026 Greater Newry Business Awards. This exciting event celebrates the area's most ground-breaking, productive and thriving companies."
He added: "We hope the numerous award categories encourages the many businesses throughout the Greater Newry Area to shout out loud and proud about the wins they have made and the success they have achieved."
Councillor Philip Campbell, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, said: "Newry, Mourne and Down District Council are delighted to be a Principal Sponsor of this year's Greater Newry Business Awards. This is a great opportunity to showcase the innovative, successful and high-performing businesses that are located right across our district."
Cllr Campbell added: "With a range of categories to enter, the 2026 Business Awards will offer recognition to a range of sectors and business approaches, which all contribute to driving forward growth and investment across the district."
The deadline for entries is Friday 17 July 2026 at midnight, with the shortlist announced on Thursday 3 September. Ticket sales close on Friday 18 September. Full details on categories, criteria and how to enter are available at www.newrychamber.com.
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As part of a new series of articles from Best Property Services. Olivia Best shares with us how her day with the busy family business goes.
"The day usually starts at 7am, when I am woken by a babbling baby from across the hall. No alarm clocks needed when you’ve got an energetic one year old raring to go. The brighter mornings mean we are able to get our dog out for a walk (Rua the irish doodle), who is equally as energetic. We are lucky enough to live beside the beautiful Kilbroney Forest Park where there are endless walks and trails. I can see why Rostrevor has become such a popular area to live, especially for those who love being outdoors.
"I work in a multi-generational property, land and commercial sales & lettings company with my brother Kyle and our father Garry. One morning a week, the three of us meet before the offices open to go over anything that needs reviewed for the week ahead. After that, depending on what day it is, I’ll either be in our Warrenpoint or Newry office.
"Our days are usually a busy mix of viewings, meetings, valuations and photographing properties. I take care of the companies’ marketing, so I’ll be looking at what properties or land we’ll be highlighting that week, what events are coming up, our charity partners, reviewing the website and photography, and analysing our website and social media traffic. No two days are the same in this business, and particularly in sales we get to meet lots of interesting characters from all walks of life with plenty of stories to tell.
"Our clients range from those who are just starting out and buying their first property, to the established family who are selling their beloved home after 20 years. There are the aspiring business owners who have just signed a lease on their new commercial premises with a prospering future ahead, to the long standing farmer who is selling land that has provided not just for him, but for his family for several generations. Buying or selling a property is not only the biggest financial transaction you can make in your life, but can also be the most sentimental. Moving home can be an incredibly exciting time, but depending on the circumstances, it can also be a bittersweet and heartbreaking time. We have to be prepared to navigate all that comes with that, to ensure we fully understand our client and their expectations during the sales process, and to provide the best service we possibly can.
"Sometimes we have people who are moving home from abroad, to those who are simply moving ‘down the road’. Though moving from different places, the goal is often the same - to be closer to family. It’s hard to find a better reason to move than that. Family is the reason this business started and our team are the reason it is still here today. Myself, my brother Kyle and our father Garry all work together with the end goal of making this company the best it can possibly be. We have an incredible team of people here and are lucky to have so many repeat clients because of it.
"One of the favourite parts of the job (apart from having a nosey inside some incredible homes!) is showing people the beautiful area we live in and all it has to offer. We cover counties Armagh and Down, and the coastline from Warrenpoint all the way to Kilkeel. The area stretching from Newry all the way out towards Cranfield shoreline has a wide range of walking trails, hikes, parks and coastal attractions so we’re spoilt for choice in terms of outdoor activities. Carlingford Lough itself is ideal for kayaking, swimming, sailing and paddleboarding, especially in the Spring/Summer months. The Mourne Mountains provide hiking trails suitable for all levels of experience, and nature lovers can explore the hidden forests of Kilbroney Park, where there is no shortage of picturesque trails.
"If we’re not out at viewings, the residential and commercial teams are in the office processing paperwork, on the phone to clients, or writing up valuation reports. The land team, if not out on a valuation or land inspection, are doing similar, or getting the auction room set up for an upcoming sale. If that room could talk, it would have some interesting stories to tell! The last phone call comes in around 5.29pm, then at 5.30pm we close up after a busy day, and head home for the evening, ready to do it all again the next morning :) "
Best Property Services have offices in Newry, Warrenpoint and Dungannon.
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Rathfriland-based packaging supplier Hub Packaging has acquired Clonmel firm Faleen Sales Ltd in a deal completed in April for an undisclosed sum. The move strengthens Hub Packaging's presence in the Munster region and expands its reach into the meat processing sector through Faleen Sales' established customer base and expertise in strapping and packaging accessories.
The acquisition forms part of Hub Packaging's recently announced growth strategy, which targets turnover of more than €50m over the next five years, and builds on a relationship spanning more than 15 years between Hub Packaging and Faleen Sales' owner, the late Paul Ronan.
The Rathfriland firm had been working with Paul Ronan to facilitate his planned retirement through the acquisition of the business. Following his untimely passing, the deal was completed by mutual agreement between both parties.
Paul Ronan Jr, Director and Company Secretary at Faleen Sales, said: "I am delighted that we have concluded the sale to Hub Packaging. We have been impressed by the Hub Packaging team in every respect, particularly their sensitivity during this difficult period for my family. Hub Packaging have grown considerably over recent years, focusing on delivering certainty, quality and a great experience for customers. This made them the obvious choice. I know my dad would have loved to be here to lead the final stages of the handover between the two family businesses."
Hub Packaging's Commercial Director Russell Brennan paid tribute to Paul Ronan and spoke of the importance of continuity for customers.
"Paul was highly regarded by our team and many across the industry. He will be remembered for his integrity, honesty and generosity. Our relationship with the Faleen team was built over many years and rooted in shared values, mutual respect and a commitment to supporting customers. We are pleased to honour those plans by ensuring continuity for customers and carrying forward the strong relationships Paul and the team built over many years."
Founded in 1977 by Ben Crozier, Hub Packaging has grown turnover from €4m to €25m over the past decade. The family-owned business employs 45 full-time staff and has recently appointed David Quigley, formerly of Coca-Cola HBC, as Chief Revenue Officer to drive its commercial strategy. Plans are also in place to significantly increase warehouse capacity.
Quigley said the acquisition was a significant step in the company's growth plans. "The acquisition of Faleen Sales Ltd marks an important step in our all-Ireland growth journey and strengthens our ability to support customers with a wider reach, deeper expertise and continued investment in service. Supported by a team based across Cork, Dublin and County Down, our customer base continues to grow and diversify. Above all, we remain deeply grounded in the values built over decades as a family business, with our core value of behaving with integrity and respect."
Hub Packaging is trusted by over 3,000 customers in Ireland and the UK. The company has also confirmed that Aberdeen firm Packed Up will join the Hub Packaging Group as its presence in Ireland and the UK continues to grow.
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