Furey Smyth Group and Network of EUROSPAR Stores Nominated for Local Business of the Year
The Furey Smyth Group, a family-owned retailer operating a network of EUROSPAR supermarkets across five counties in Ireland has been named on the shortlist to be awarded Local Business of the Year.
Established more than 30 years ago by John Furey and Maurice Smyth, the Furey Smyth Group has grown from a single store into a network of seven supermarkets. Employing over 350 staff nationwide, the group has maintained a strong commitment to its customers, communities and sustainable retail practices.
Other nominees for Local Business of the Year include The Address Collective, Castle Group, Hanley Energy and Loughnane’s Family Butchers. The winner will be chosen by an independent panel of judges chaired by Microsoft’s Anne Sheehan and will be announced at a ceremony on February 19th at the Mansion House in Dublin. The Local Business category is part of The Irish Times Business Awards in association with Bank of Ireland.
A significant factor for the Furey Smyth Group to be recognised is its substantial investment in its stores to enhance the customer experience with recent refurbishments across the network reflecting the focus from the business on creating welcoming, modern spaces for shoppers while maintaining its community-centred ethos. This includes more than €350,000 over the last four years on providing continued access to the local post office, with six of its stores now home to An Post services.
There has also been over €2 million invested in sustainability initiatives across its stores. These involve installing solar panels at all feasible locations, upgrading refrigeration units to ultra-energy efficient models, introducing energy-efficient lighting, and implementing a comprehensive infrastructure optimisation programme. The cumulative impact from these actions is the reduction in energy usage by 40%, cutting annual energy consumption by over 1.1 million kilowatt-hours and reducing the businesses’ carbon footprint by 350,000 kg of CO₂ per year.
Among its most recent initiatives include Ireland’s first Envipco Quantum reverse vending machine (RVM), a state-of-the-art system that allows shoppers to bulk-return drink containers quickly and efficiently. Capable of processing up to 120 containers per minute, the Bulk Feed RVM supports the Deposit Return Scheme and helps reduce waste while promoting responsible recycling. Since it was installed, it has processed over 1 million containers, demonstrating a tangible contribution to the circular economy and reinforcing the group’s commitment to a more sustainable future.
By combining innovation, sustainability and exceptional service, the Furey Smyth Group continues to set a benchmark for Irish retail. Its nomination for Local Business of the Year highlights the company’s dedication to excellence and its ongoing role as a trusted and valued member of its communities.
Chris Furey, Managing Director of Furey Smyth Group, said:
“We are thrilled to be recognised in the Local Business of the Year category. This nomination reflects the dedication, hard work and passion of our entire team, who strive every day to provide the best service and shopping experience for our customers. From our earliest days, the Furey Smyth Group has been rooted in community, and this recognition reinforces our commitment to continue supporting the areas we serve.”
Peter Dwan, EUROSPAR Sales Director, added:
“To be shortlisted for a national award of this calibre is a tremendous honour. The Furey Smyth Group exemplifies what it means to be a strong local business, balancing excellence in retail with a commitment to sustainability and community. Every store in the group serves as a cornerstone for its local area, and this nomination is testament to the outstanding work of their team across the country.”
