The Jelly Bean Factory wins the Overall SFA National Small Business Awards 2008

Aran Candy, branded throughout the world as The Jelly Bean Factory has won the Overall SFA National Small Business Award 2008, partnered by O2 Ireland and Bank of Ireland Business Banking. The prize package awarded to Aran Candy includes a €15,000 cash prize and lifetime SFA membership.

The presentation took place at a gala banquet in the Mansion House on Wednesday evening, 12th March.

In making his address, An Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, TD, the Patron of the Awards, stated that: "With over 97 per cent of companies operating in Ireland today employing less than 50 people, the crucial role of a vibrant, innovative small business sector is beyond question. The extent of the Government's commitment to small business in Ireland is clearly demonstrated by the real and substantive changes that have already been implemented in response to the Report of the Small Business Forum. This sets out a comprehensive agenda designed to ensure that the small business sector achieves its full potential and continues to play a key role in our economic development over the next decade. It is an agenda on which we must continue to work together, strengthening our adaptability to the challenges of a new competitive environment. Tonight's awards are further evidence that we should meet these challenges with confidence. And I have no doubt that the Small Firms Association, for its part, will not be found wanting in its response."

Aran Candy was founded in 1998 by father and son duo Peter and Richard Cullen. The company is dedicated to producing gourmet jelly beans. Aran Candy distributes its produce throughout Europe, Scandinavia, the Middle East, Far East, Australia, New Zealand and Canada. As the business has continued to grow, the company is due to open a larger plant in Blanchardstown.

Announcing the winner, Pat Crotty, SFA Chairman and Chair of the Judging Panel stated that "Aran Candy has proved that by dedication to quality and focusing on the development of a core product, Irish manufacturing companies will continue to prosper, grow and diversify into new markets. Already a market leader in the UK this company is poised to also become market leader in the other markets it currently supplies throughout Europe, Scandinavia, the Middle East and the Southern Hemisphere."

http://www.bankofireland.ie/html/gws/business/understanding_business/awards/index.html