Taking Care Of Business with Ronan Berry

Global politics is hitting Irish businesses where it hurts—John Finn of Treasury Solutions breaks down what EU–India trade talks, Mercosur tensions and tariffs could mean for Irish SMEs in 2026. Gillian Peters of Pragmatica introduces a new LOETB-backed programme turning sustainability into practical, profit-smart action for small businesses. HR expert Caroline Reidy shares why AI is reshaping graduate hiring and what it means for career starters and employers alike. And Mullingar’s Noel McIntyre of Motion Picture reflects on winning national acclaim—and how great photography can power great storytelling.

With trade wars looming and EU countermeasures on the table, David Savage of Deloitte joins Ronan Berry to discuss how global shifts could impact Irish businesses in 2026. Jack Pilkington of Agri Data Analytics shares how Irish ag-tech is gaining ground in Europe, following a key trade mission to Brussels. Tony Delaney of SYS Financial reflects on the expansion of GTL Life and Pensions—and why growth doesn’t have to mean losing the values of a family-run business. Plus, James Burke of Mullingar Chamber pays tribute to the late John Connaughton, a true Midlands hospitality pioneer.

If credit dries up, growth stalls—David Broderick of the Small Firms Association joins Ronan to discuss the real financing challenges facing small businesses and why better access to capital is central to the SFA’s new three-year strategy. Breda Dooley of Matrix Recruitment outlines salary trends for 2026, highlighting the sectors most affected by skills shortages and what it means for Midlands employers and jobseekers. And Michelle O’Keefe of Platform55 talks about the roots of bad workplace behaviour, holding leaders accountable, and why real outcomes—not optics—must define company culture in 2026.

A new year brings new questions—and opportunities—for Midlands businesses. Lorraine McLaughlin of Dovida Midlands explains why home care careers are drawing talent from retail and hospitality, and how flexible, supported roles are transforming community care. Jack Murray of MediaHQ shares how to cut through the noise in 2026 with smarter PR, better stories, and the right mix of AI and authenticity. Insolvency expert John McCann tackles the real impact of auto-enrolment on small employers. And Tony McCormack TD outlines infrastructure progress, SME challenges, and key policy changes for Offaly in 2026.

As part of our end-of-year Taking Care of Business special, Ronan Berry speaks with industry and political leaders about the highs, challenges, and opportunities shaping the Midlands economy. John Condron of Condron Concrete shares insights on infrastructure delivery, what 2026 could bring for construction—and rising motorsport star Alex Dunne. Denise Buckley of Sugar Plum Sweetery reflects on a whirlwind year of viral growth and sweet retail success. Minister Peter Burke TD talks enterprise supports, competitiveness and tourism, while Tony McCormack TD highlights key Offaly infrastructure projects and the SME outlook for 2026.

Conor of Typo Coffee shares how his Westmeath-based brand is growing from the ground up—thanks to wholesale strategy and support from the Local Enterprise Office. Tullamore Credit Union CEO Paul Shaw reveals a strong financial year, the return of millions to the local economy, and new social housing loan initiatives. Conor O’Leary of Purple House Cancer Support introduces a workplace training programme to help managers better support staff facing cancer. And Sharon Davern of Ramble & Roast Coffee talks festive food fame, viral sandwiches, and the power of great local ingredients.

Tony Woods joins Ronan to unpack the Government’s Accelerating Infrastructure Report and how Modern Methods of Construction could speed up housing and infrastructure delivery across Ireland. Richie O’Hara Jnr shares the story behind Luain Clothing—a Midlands-born fashion brand inspired by the River Shannon. Orla Dollard reflects on how Philip Doogue Mechanical Services in Abbeyleix earned a national Employer of the Year Award by prioritising mentorship and apprenticeships. Plus, Caroline Collins unveils Tullamore Chamber’s new Business After Hours events, 2026 Business Awards nominations, and the return of QUIDS vouchers for local shopping.

Portarlington’s Stuart McCaul, founder and CEO of Ishikawa Technologies, shares how he built a global software acquisition company—and why he proudly calls himself a “socialist capitalist.” Deirdre Fox introduces the Offaly Volunteer Centre’s new Professional Exchange Programme, connecting skilled locals with voluntary groups for high-impact advice. And Mullingar’s Mark Brady of Bravo Contracts reflects on their rapid rise, a recent Chamber Award win, and a powerful act of Christmas generosity in Westmeath.

How will Ireland’s new automatic pension enrolment scheme affect your business? Colin Donnery of FRS Co-op breaks down what employers need to know now, from cost implications to long-term planning. Jackie Carroll of Laois Chamber gives us a sneak peek at the upcoming President’s Lunch with Pat McDonagh and reveals how the Chamber’s Christmas campaign aims to boost local trade. And Athlone’s Michael Ganly shares the remarkable story behind Ganly’s—how a DIY boom, army customers, and relentless drive built a Midlands institution.

Freshly crowned Chef of the Year, Anthony O’Connor of The Old Warehouse, joins Ronan to share his culinary journey, passion for local produce, and the real story behind the kitchen doors. Sinead Cooper of Serene Beauty & Wellness reveals how the ACORNS programme helped her turn a dream into a booming business—and why she wants more Midlands women to follow suit. Chris Hewitt of Biddy O’Dowds explains how a traditional Irish pub became a national digital innovator. And LOETB’s new ‘Back in Gear’ initiative offers real hope for former Fastway workers left in limbo.

Professor Felicity Kelliher of SETU has just been honoured internationally for championing Ireland’s micro-enterprises—and she’s calling for policies that reflect the real behaviour of small businesses. Chamber Ireland President Margaret Considine speaks to Ronan after addressing the European Parliament of Enterprises, highlighting the urgent reforms needed to restore European competitiveness. Cllr Eddie Fitzpatrick shares the latest on the Fastway collapse, including what’s next for affected drivers and Midlands businesses. And we bring you the highlights, emotions, and celebrations from the 2025 Midlands 103 Hospitality Awards.

Why do so many SME projects stall after funding? Shannon Kearney of SquaredMap shares how Lean, digital tools, and AI can actually drive lasting change in your business. The team behind Playtown Tullamore celebrates a national award and reveals what’s next for their magical family experience. AwakenAngels CEO Clare McGee talks women-led investing, a £4M milestone, and how Midlands women can join the movement as founders or funders. Plus, Dr Alan Hore previews the upcoming MMC Accelerate event in Laois—and how modern construction methods could transform Ireland’s housing sector.

Midlands MEP Ciarán Mullooly warns that businesses and communities risk losing Just Transition funding if they don’t act fast and outlines what groups in Offaly, Longford, Westmeath and Laois must do now to protect their grants and local jobs. Brian Egan, founder of Midlands based Reactable AI and DeepPurple AI reveals how AI is levelling the digital playing field for Ireland’s SMEs. Benedicta Durcan of BnM and Paul Mahon of Watt Footprint join Ronan to discuss Accelerate Green, the programme scaling real sustainability businesses, creating high-skilled jobs, and putting Ireland at the forefront of climate solutions.

Neil Skeffington of Novelplast warns that Ireland’s soaring energy costs could drive manufacturing overseas, while Germany invests billions to protect its industries. But there’s hope—Paul Mahon of Watt Footprint explains how Irish businesses are cutting energy bills by up to 30% through smarter strategies. Liam Tutty of Dead Centre Brewing shares how his craft soda spin-off just struck Gold at Blas na hÉireann, and Breda Colgan of Salutem Advisory talks real-site safety, why culture matters, and how the CIF’s ‘Back to Basics’ campaign aims to save lives in construction.

From dereliction to regeneration — Athlone joins Ireland’s Living City Initiative. Architect Mel McGerr and businesswoman Rosie Boles share how design, heritage, and community can bring new life to the heart of the Midlands. Floor Store Direct is marking 20 years in business. Siobhan Smyth will discuss their pivot to digital, customer loyalty, and what’s next for this Irish success story Savoury Fare continues to expand, opening a new café at Tuar Ard Arts Centre in Moate. Co-owner Des Hennelly will talk about the big move, customer reaction, and his take on the return of the 9% VAT rate for hospitality. This October, Sean Downey of the Construction Industry Federation takes us Back to Basics, unpacking how leadership, culture, and simple safety practices can stop fatal falls from height on every construction site.

Taking Care of Business with Ronan Berry - a Budget 2026 Special.

With Budget 2026 on the horizon, TD John Clendennen outlines the findings from Fine Gael’s Backing Business survey—and what’s needed to ease pressure on Ireland’s SMEs. Mullingar’s Ray Carolan shares his journey from building Lakeland Kayaks to helping businesses thrive online through WebFizz. Rosanna Irwin of Samsú reveals how LEO’s Grow Digital Voucher helped her transform burnout into a streamlined, screen-free retreat brand. And Joe Wynne brings the latest on K Buggy Coaches’ recruitment drive and training partnership with Wynne’s School of Motoring.

Westmeath food is on the rise — meet Blas na hÉireann finalists Eimear Nally of Bonny Bo and Peter Pavlov of Barbavilla Dairy, and hear from Michael Ward on plans for a new Food Hub in Mullingar that could transform the county’s food future. From bourbon barrels to rum-finished warmth — discover Flynn's Irish Whiskey, a small-batch blended triple-distilled whiskey inspired by former postman Paddy Flynn from Cloghan. From bar floor to breakthrough tech — Bua Nua’s John Mulvihill reveals how his all-in-one hospitality app is cutting chaos and powering the next wave of Irish food and drink innovation.

Taking Care of Business Live from the National Ploughing Championship 2025

Birr is building its future—Barry Kennedy shares how the Birr 20:20 Vision is reigniting its Business Pillar and aligning with tourism to bring bold ideas to life. Aubrey Nuzum of Portlaoise-based Aubren reveals how their award-winning tech is cutting energy use and making waves globally. Bernie Everard and Ann Marie Feighery preview what’s cooking in the Midlands Flavours marquee at this year’s Ploughing Championships. And John Cusack celebrates 30 years of the Bridge Shopping Centre, from Gay Byrne’s ribbon-cutting to 90 million visitors and counting.