By Business & Finance 
Business & Finance has released the annual Top 100 Index, recognising the leading companies operating in Ireland in 2025.
Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4
The full list is available to download here
PCH
PCH is a global supply chain management and product development company that has been supporting leading brands for over 25 years. Headquartered in Ireland, PCH partners with companies that prioritise design, consumer experience, and brand identity, guiding them through every stage of the product journey — from initial concept and strategic sourcing to manufacturing management and B2B/B2C delivery. Renowned for designing and managing efficient, agile, and socially responsible supply chains, PCH provides its clients with visibility and predictability to better manage operations. It works closely with global brands that share its core values of transparency, health and safety, and environmental responsibility. Committed to sustainability, PCH actively collaborates with industry partners, suppliers, and sustainability experts to share best practices and promote ethical business across the value chain.
Pfizer
Founded in 1849 by Charles Pfizer and his cousin Charles Erhart, Pfizer became a multi-award winning biopharmaceutical company. In 1941, the US requested Pfizer to provide penicilin to treat Allied soldiers during WWII. Today, Pfizer is a top global research-based biopharmaceutical company. It discovers, develops, manufactures, and markets medicines, vaccines, and over-the-counter products worldwide. Pfizer operates on a global scale, with a presence in over 200 countries and territories and more than 81,000 employees worldwide. The company manages 37 manufacturing sites and maintains a broad portfolio that includes prescription medicines, vaccines, and consumer health products. As of 2025, Pfizer has over 100 research and development projects in its pipeline. In 2024, the company reported annual revenue of $63.6 billion, up from $59.6 billion in 2023, with first-quarter 2025 revenue reaching $13.7 billion. Its global operations support distribution across a wide range of markets and healthcare systems.
Phelan Energy
Phelan Energy Group Limited was established in 2005 after solar energy solutions grabbed our founder’s, Paschal Phelan, entrepreneurial attention. The Group now have global offices in Dubai, Dublin, Cape Town, New Delhi, Afghanistan. Phelan Energy Group Limited is a leading international energy developer with an exclusive focus on Solar PV. Led by a dynamic trans-national team the group commenced operations in South Africa 15 years ago. It has a total installed, and grid connected, capacity of 260 MWp, with a large and ever-growing global footprint. Our vision, as an energy developer, is to bring low-cost clean Solar PV power to future generations.
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 460 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 Ryanair is the number one international carrier, transporting 153 million customers annually and operating over 3,600 flights daily across 2,100 routes. Ryanair serves 230 airports in 37 countries, offering widespread accessibility. Ryanair acquired a 75% stake in Austrian airline Laudamotion in 2018, expanding its presence with new bases in Austria and Germany, where it operates Airbus aircraft. Ryanair’s Polish subsidiary, formerly known as Ryanair Sun and rebranded as Buzz in 2019, has seen significant growth in recent years. Operating a fleet of over 70 aircraft, Buzz now provides both scheduled and charter services from Poland to a wide range of Mediterranean destinations, further strengthening Ryanair’s presence in the European market.
Sisk
John Sisk & Son is a forward-thinking, international construction and engineering business with a long-term vision, built on over 165 years of industry experience. Employing around 2,500 people, Sisk operates extensively across Ireland, the United Kingdom, and mainland Europe, earning recognition from global clients as a leader in the safe and efficient delivery of complex projects. Sisk provides a comprehensive, full life-cycle approach to construction, encompassing everything from initial planning and offsite construction to delivery, fit-out, and ongoing maintenance. With technology serving as a key enabler, Sisk ensures buildings are managed and maintained efficiently throughout their lifespan, offering innovative solutions that meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and sustainability. This commitment to excellence underpins Sisk’s reputation as a trusted partner in delivering world-class construction projects.
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. In recent years, the company has reported record profits and operates a global fleet with aircraft operating globally, 24/7. 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 Westrock
A world leader in paper-based packaging with revenue of approximately €11.3 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 €2,080 million, and an EBITDA margin of 18.5%, 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 and has since expanded into 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 as such 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 deliver powerful, innovative financial process automation solutions that increase productivity, reduce costs, and ensure organizations 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 are a global organization with 1 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
Founded 24 years ago, the wind farm developer is now Ireland’s leading supplier of renewable energy, employing 1,300 people. The company operates 31 onshore wind farms, including Ireland’s largest, Galway Wind Park, and has secured several Power Purchase Agreements with third-party wind and solar operators. Since 2008, it has invested €2.5 billion in low-carbon energy infrastructure across Ireland, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and clean energy. SSE Renewables currently operates three offshore wind farms—Seagreen, Beatrice, and Greater Gabbard—totaling over 2,100 MW in capacity. It is also constructing Dogger Bank, set to be the world’s largest offshore wind farm, and developing several others, including Arklow Bank 2 in Ireland. Through continued expansion and innovation, the company plays a pivotal role in driving Ireland’s transition to renewable energy and meeting its climate targets.
Stafford Group
Led by Group CEO Mark Stafford, this family-run firm has been in operation since 1891, with diverse activities spanning sports retail, fuel, and shipping. Its primary subsidiary, Life Style Sports, generates sales exceeding €100 million annually. In 2016, the retailer launched a 6,000 square foot flagship store on Dublin’s Grafton Street, marking a significant milestone in its growth. Since taking the helm in 2004, Mark Stafford has been credited with steering the company towards expansion, with ambitions to extend Life Style Sports’ reach into the European market in the coming years.
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 120 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
Sysco is the largest foodservice provider on the island of Ireland. What began as a family-run business has grown into a team of approximately 1,700 employees, delivering food solutions to over 11,000 customers each week. Operating from a central Dublin warehouse and seven regional centres, the company guarantees next-day island-wide delivery—even to the most remote locations. With a product range of more than 10,000 fresh, frozen, ambient, and non-food catering items, Sysco maintains a significant logistical and operational presence in the Irish food distribution sector.
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 been named as one of Ireland’s ‘Best Managed’ companies in the esteemed ‘Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards Programme’.
TransferMate
TransferMate — a subsidiary of CluneTech’s Taxback Group — was founded in 2010 by Terry Clune and Sinead Fitzmaurice to offer an easy, cost-effective solution for international money transfers. With expertise in global tax recovery and payroll, they understood the delays, costs, and administrative hurdles of cross-border payments. TransferMate promptly began working with regulators worldwide to secure licenses in multiple jurisdictions and forged enduring partnerships with banks, fintechs, and software providers. Led by CEO Gary Conroy since 2025, the company continues to scale its global payments infrastructure.
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 (64% of Group profits) and Sharp (36% 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 late 2012, and completed in Q1 2013, Uniphar’s acquisition of Cahill May Roberts moved it number two position in the Irish pharmaceutical wholesale and distribution market. Since then, the company has expanded significantly, taking poll position in the Irish market and transforming into a high-growth diversified international healthcare services company. Uniphar delivered a strong performance in 2024, achieving 9.6% growth in gross profit. This growth resulted in a 6.4% rise in EBITDA, reaching €123.5 million (£102.4m) up from €116.0 million (£96.2m) the previous year.
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 completed 19 acquisitions, including the 2021 NWFE deal, 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 modernization, and service delivery management, Version 1 has redefined businesses worldwide, helping to shape the future for large public sector organizations 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.
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. Since it’s 2020 valuation, Workhuman nearly doubled its revenue, and is now valued at $2.1 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. For more information, please visit https://www.workvivo.com.
