VFI & LVA launch Irish Pub Awards
Sue O’Neill of management services provider Shellcove and Events Manager for the Awards introduced VFI President Pat Crotty who explained that the two organisations had had the idea for such an awards scheme about a year ago.
“The pub is a central component of our hospitality and tourism sectors as well as being a major contributor to growth in our regional economies,” he stated, adding that some 56 regional category award-winners would be announced who’d be able to avail of a prize package of management training to help them progress their business further. All regional winners will also avail of comprehensive media coverage including a profile piece in a special awards supplement which will be published in the Irish Independent on the day of the Gala Awards Ceremony when national category winners and the Overall Pub of the Year will be announced.
Pat Crotty described the awards as being the definitive national industry standard for Ireland.
The pub has over the years been an integral part of Irish social culture, he continued, “so these awards will be an important vehicle to showcase the diversity that’s available in the modern Irish pub and recognise the creativity and innovation that’s already there”.
LVA Chair Deirdre Devitt added, “By entering these awards, pubs in Dublin and throughout the country have a great opportunity to raise their business profile through regional and national media coverage. They will also receive a comprehensive management training package which will help them to grow and embed innovation into their business well into the future. The LVA are delighted to support this initiative which is so focussed on the progression of our industry”.
Entries are open as from today and judging will take place during the Summer. The National Pub of the Year Award, including category awards, will be announced at a Gala Ceremony on November 9th.
These awards help execute a strategy of raising the pub profile with the Irish consumer and visiting tourists. The objective of the Awards programme is to recognise and reward excellence and innovation across various categories in the Irish pub industry including food and drink and entertainment.
The National Irish Pub Awards 2017 are open to all of VFI and LVA members. Entry is free and those interested in entering should do so on the dedicated website www.irishpubawards.ie.
Closing date is 23rd June 2017 and the eight award categories will include: Best Food Pub; Best Tourist Pub; Innovative Pub of the Year; Best Local Pub; Outstanding Customer Service; Best Music Pub; Best Outdoor Space and Pub Personality of the Year.
A series of seven regional events will be held to announce 56 regional winners across all categories.
The 56 regional winners will be showcased as the best in class in their area.
