Business & Finance has released the annual Top 100 Index, recognising the leading companies operating in Ireland in 2023.
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The full list is available to download here
Portwest
Portwest is a global leader in workwear, safety wear, and PPE, established in 1904. A family-owned business, now managed by the third and fourth generations of the Hughes family, it serves over 130 countries. With more than 5,100 employees worldwide, Portwest specialises in flame-resistant and high-visibility workwear, hand and foot protection, PPE, and wearable technology. The company owns four factories and operates eight warehouses globally, ensuring high-quality production, fast lead times, and ethical sourcing. Its award-winning team of designers constantly innovates to meet customer needs. Portwest’s extensive catalogue features over 1,350 safety styles, and its commitment to customer service and competitive pricing has secured its reputation as an industry leader.
Primark
Primark is an international fashion retailer employing more than 80,000 colleagues across 17 countries in Europe and the US. Founded in Ireland in 1969 under the Penneys brand, Primark aims to provide affordable choices for everyone, from great quality everyday essentials to stand-out style across women’s, men’s and kids, as well as beauty, homeware and accessories. With a focus on creating great retail experiences, Primark operates 38 stores in the Republic of Ireland and 450 stores globally, with the aim of reaching 530 stores by the end of 2026. Primark is working to make more sustainable fashion affordable for everyone through its Primark Cares strategy, a multi-year programme that focuses on giving clothing a longer life, protecting life on the planet and supporting the livelihoods of the people who make Primark clothes.
Ryanair
Perhaps Ireland’s best-known company, the low-cost airline is the number one International airline, carrying 153 million customers annually and operating over 2,400 flights every day across 2,100 routes. Ryanair flies out of 239 airports in 40 countries. Over the last year Ryanair took a 75% stake in Austrian airline Laudamotion, which opened bases in Austria and Germany, flying Airbus aircraft. Ryanair Sun continued to grow, with five aircraft operating charter flights from Poland to the Mediterranean.
Sisk
John Sisk & Son is an innovative, international, construction and engineering business with long term vision and over 160 years in operation. Sisk employs approx. 1,900 people with extensive operations across Ireland, the United Kingdom and mainland Europe and is recognised by global clients as world leaders in safe delivery. Sisk delivers a full life-cycle approach to construction from planning and offsite construction, through delivery and fit-out with technology as a key enabler, and then managing and maintaining buildings efficiently throughout their lifespan.
SMBC
SMBC Aviation Capital is a leading global aircraft leasing company, with its principal activities focused on leasing and trading aircraft. Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, SMBC Aviation Capital serves airlines across the world, ensuring they have access to modern, fuel-efficient fleets that meet the evolving needs of the aviation industry. The company prides itself on a strong track record, having delivered 18 consecutive years of growth and profitability, with every minute one of its aircraft taking off or landing somewhere in the world. SMBC Aviation Capital emphasises open communication, a “can-do” attitude, and responsible decision-making as central to its success. It also values collaboration and innovation, working closely with partners and stakeholders to foster sustainable growth. Backed by its shareholders, Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMFG) and Sumitomo Corporation, the company benefits from the financial expertise and global networks of its parent companies, which further enhance its position as a leader in the aircraft leasing industry
Smurfit Kappa Group
A world leader in paper-based packaging with revenue of approximately €10.1 billion, Smurfit Kappa employs over 48,000 people globally, across 36 countries, and owns multiple recycling and manufacturing operations. Jefferson Smurfit Group became Smurfit Kappa after the 2005 merger with Kappa Packaging. Group CEO Tony Smurfit oversees global operations and in most recent results, for the year ending 2021, Smurfit Kappa Group delivered EBITDA of €1,702 million, and an EBITDA margin of 16.8%,, demonstrating once again the strength and resilience of the Group.
Smyths Toys
The company is run by four brothers, Tony, Padraig, Liam and Thomas Smyth. The company was founded in Claremorris, County Mayo on 23 December 1986. Expansion to central Europe – On 24 April 2018, Smyths Toys acquired Toys “R” Us stores in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. In 2019, all the stores in those countries were re-branded to Smyths Toys. In total, Smyths Toys operates over 200 stores: 21 stores in Ireland, 119 in the United Kingdom, 92 in central Europe and 41 in France. Smyths Toys UK Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of the company.
SoftCo
SoftCo delivers powerful, innovative financial process automation solutions that increase productivity, reduce costs, and ensure organisations meet compliance obligations. SoftCo’s technology automates Procure-to-Pay, Accounts Payable, Vendor Management, eBilling and Contract Management processes. Our solutions are built on a common platform, SoftCo10, ensuring that as our customers expand they can seamlessly grow on the SoftCo ecosystem. SoftCo is a global organisation with 2 million business users worldwide across all industry sectors. Our DNA is Procure-to-Pay. We build our smart technology with this domain knowledge delivering fast, straight through and touchless processing. Our ethos is to understand our customers’ businesses, the challenges they face, and deliver solutions to meet and go beyond their expectations. We are ISO 27001 and SÄHKE2 certified, a Microsoft Gold Partner and an AWS Advanced Technology Partner.
SSE Airtricity
The wind farm developer, founded over 20 years ago and now employing 750, is Ireland’s market-leading supplier of renewable energy. Its operations span 26 wind farms (including Ireland’s largest – Galway Wind Park), and a number of Power Purchase Agreements with third party wind and solar operators. Since 2008, The company has invested €2.5 billion in low-carbon energy infrastructure in Ireland.
Stafford Group
Helmed by Group CEO, Mark Stafford, the family-run firm has existed since 1891 with activities ranging from sports retail, fuel, and shipping. Its chief subsidiary, Life Style Sports, boasts sales in excess of €100 million. In 2016, the retailer opened a 6,000 square feet flagship store on Dublin’s Grafton Street. In recent years, Mark Stafford, who took the reins in 2004, is said to harbour ambitions to expand Life Style Sports’ reach into Europe.
Supermac’s
Supermac’s is an Irish fast food restaurant chain first opened on Main Street, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway in 1978. Since that first opening, Supermac’s restaurants have become a firm fixture in towns and cities around Ireland and now have over 110 outlets nationwide. Today Supermac’s is the largest indigenous fast food restaurant group with a policy of continued expansion and growth. The success of the company can be attributed to a number of factors: a unique and innovative menu, a commitment to quality across all aspects of the business, a commitment to buying from local Irish suppliers and a strong work ethic.
Sysco Ireland
Sysco is the largest food business on the island of Ireland. What was started by the Geary family has now grown to a team of over 1,300 people delivering food solutions to thousands of customers every night. Our customers rely on us to help them grow their businesses with a range of over 10,000 fresh, frozen and ambient food products and non-food products. Operating from a central Dublin location and seven regional centres, we guarantee next-day island-wide delivery; we are the only food business in the country capable of delivering on our customers’ expectations regardless of how remote your business location is.
The Heatons Group
The Heatons Group is Ireland’s largest department store group, proudly employing over 2,000 people across the country. The company operates under three distinct brands: Heatons Department Stores, with a total of 54 locations across the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland; SportsWorld, which boasts 28 stores in the Republic of Ireland; and Sports Direct, featuring 15 stores in Northern Ireland. Known for its commitment to quality and customer service, Heatons has een named as one of Ireland’s ‘Best Managed’ companies in the esteemed ‘Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards Programme.’
Transfermate
Transfermate – a subsidiary of CluneTech – was founded in 2010. At that time, founder Terry Clune and CEO Sinead Fitzmaurice saw a need in the market for an easy, simple and cost-effective way to transfer money internationally. As experts in global tax recovery and global payroll, they understood the delays, costs and administrative challenges facing companies when making cross-border payments. TransferMate immediately began working with regulators around the world to secure licenses to operate as a global payments provider in key jurisdictions and began developing lasting partnerships with banks, fintechs and software providers.
UDG Healthcare
UDG Healthcare provides expert outsourced healthcare services specialising in advisory, communications, commercial, clinical and packaging for the pharmaceutical sector via two divisions; Ashfield and Sharp. UDG Healthcare plc has experienced phenomenal growth over the last eight years. During this period, the Group has evolved from being primarily an Irish and UK-based supply chain business for pharmaceutical companies, to a global leader in advisory, communications, commercial and clinical and packaging services for healthcare across two divisions; Ashfield (70% of Group profits) and Sharp (30% of Group profits). The Group’s strategy has been to shift from a low growth, low margin supply chain business, into higher growth and higher margin outsourcing services for pharmaceutical companies. Executing this strategy has seen the Group make 21 acquisitions and four disposals since 2012. Over the past 5 years, Ashfield has generated a 14% operating profit CAGR while Sharp has generated a 15% operating profit CAGR. In 2018, the Group completed the final step in its strategic shift from a distributor for the pharmaceutical industry, to a service provider.
Uniphar
Uniphar Group is an international diversified healthcare services business servicing the requirements of more than 200 multinational pharmaceutical and medical technology manufacturers globally. Headquartered in Citywest in Dublin, the Group is active in Ireland, the UK, Europe, the US, and Asia- Pacific. The Company’s vision is to improve patient access to pharmaco-medical products and treatments by enhancing connectivity between manufacturers and healthcare stakeholders. Uniphar was originally established in 1967 to ensure a reliable supply of medicines by pharmacies for their patients and to this day, remains focused on improving patient access to pharmaco-medical products. The company has grown strongly both organically and through merger and acquisition and in 2013, Uniphar’s acquisition of Cahill May Roberts moved it to number two position in the Irish pharmaceutical wholesale and distribution market. Since then, the company has expanded significantly, taking pole position in the Irish market and transforming into a high-growth diversified international healthcare services company.
Valeo Foods
Valeo Foods is a fast-growing international consumer foods business, generating over €1.2 billion in annual sales. Since its formation in 2010, the company has expanded significantly through strategic acquisitions, successfully completing 19 acquisitions across Ireland, the UK and Continental Europe. Valeo’s journey began with the acquisition and merger of Origin Foods and Batchelors, two of Ireland’s leading branded consumer food companies. This merger was the foundation for continued growth and integrating strong, well-known brands and driving innovation across its portfolio. With an emphasis on acquisition and integration and a relentless focus on innovation, Valeo has built a reputation as a major player in the food industry, delivering consistent value through its diverse range of products. The company remains committed to innovation and expansion, shaping its future in the global food market.
Version 1
Version 1 is a true global leader in business transformation. For nearly three decades, the company has strategically partnered with customers to surpass expectations through cutting-edge technology and expert teams. With deep expertise in cloud, data and AI, application modernisation, and service delivery management, Version 1 has redefined businesses worldwide, helping to shape the future for large public sector organisations and major global private brands. Version 1 places users and user-centric design at the heart of everything it does, enabling customers to exceed expectations for their own users. The company’s approach is underpinned by the Version 1 Strength in Balance model—a balanced focus on customers, people, and a strong organisation. This model is guided by core values that are embedded in every aspect of the company’s work.
Viatel
Viatel Technology Group is Ireland’s foremost independent digital services provider, offering cutting-edge business communications, cloud solutions, and digital transformation services. As a Deloitte Best Managed Company, Viatel is dedicated to helping businesses gain a competitive edge through innovative technology solutions. With nearly 300 experienced staff, the company serves over 5,000 enterprise customers. A proud member of Guaranteed Irish, Viatel boasts global capabilities, including an extensive international network and transatlantic data centre facilities,allowing the company to meet the needs of businesses worldwide while maintaining strong local roots.
Wayflyer
Since its founding, Wayflyer has built a global team, partnered with major industry brands, and secured significant funding from leading investors. By offering fast, flexible, and data-driven financing solutions, Wayflyer empowers eCommerce businesses to unlock their full potential and pursue ambitious growth strategies. With a customer base spanning 11 countries and offices located in Dublin, London, New York, and Sydney, the company continues to expand its global footprint. Wayflyer’s commitment to innovation and customer success has cemented its role as a trusted partner in the industry, driving meaningful impact for brands worldwide
Wisetek
Businesses today are increasingly more aware of the need to enhance their processes regarding the disposition of IT assets, comply with new data protection regulations, adhere to e-waste management best practices and embrace a more circular economy model for sustainable IT re-use. Wisetek is one of the few vendors worldwide that can uniquely offer customers a complete one stop solution to meet all these requirements. Founded on the principle of lean manufacturing, Wisetek’s culture of flexibility and operational quality, combined with a full lifecycle solution, manufacturing assembly, forward, and reverse logistics, e-waste recycling and IT asset disposition services is what distinguishes us in the market. Our global network of certified processing facilities delivers worldwide excellence, security, compliance and competitiveness for our customers and reinforces our commitment to offering a global end to end service. To enhance the use of a circular economy model, Wisetek has created its own Ecommerce store www.wisetekstore.com to ensure that everyone has access to quality IT products at an affordable price, whilst giving devices further opportunity for re-use.
Workhuman
Co-headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, and Framingham, Massachusetts, Workhuman is revolutionising the way employees celebrate, connect with, and appreciate each other in the workplace. The world of work has changed and a positive employee experience is no longer a nice to have, but a business imperative. Workhuman is helping companies to meet today’s biggest human capital challenges: unprecedented turnover, employee engagement, hybrid work environments, and diversity and inclusion, which fuel today’s urgency to drive a more human-centric workplace. Through the Workhuman Cloud®, built by the company’s Dublin-based IT and engineering teams, it is helping enterprises to build and foster workplace cultures powered by recognition. Workhuman’s platform provides the industry’s best-in-class, comprehensive, socially-enabled, employee recognition solution that centres on peer-to-peer and crowdsourced feedback. It deploys solutions and services at scale and is committed to helping companies improve returns on their most important investment – their people. In 2020, the company became the second Irish tech firm to reach unicorn status, with a valuation of $1.2 billion.
Workvivo
Workvivo is a new breed of employee communication platform designed to build natural, meaningful connections in teams while helping companies reach and engage their employees in ways that traditional tools simply can’t. Workvivo brings your people together, wherever they are. It’s your intranet, internal comms tool, employee app, all merged into one familiar social experience at the very heart of your digital workplace. With annual growth of over 200% year-on-year, 1,00,000+ users across more than 87 countries, and customers ranging from Fortune 500 companies to tech startups, Workvivo is on a mission – to elevate everyone’s workplace experience. To date, Workvivo has received backing from Tiger Global, Frontline Ventures, Zoom founder Eric Yuan and Enterprise Ireland. Workvivo is headquartered in Cork, Ireland.
