Read Text View Pictures View Full Page of Article
Galway businessman Scoops Young Entrepreneur title by Julie Tierney
Michael Dawson, managing director of Arqtech Laboratories Ltd -which specialises in water treatment and laboratory testing - was presented with the prestigious Young Entrepreneur 2000 title during a special awards ceremony held in the Ardilaun House Hotel on Friday. The event was a one-day showcase of Galway’s up-and-coming entrepreneurs.
Dawson’s company, which is continuously expanding, has established itself as a major force in the water treatment business and is one of the most successful and innovative companies of its kind in Europe.
Six finalists from a world class field of contenders were competing for the business award now in its second year, having evolved from the ‘’Retail Sales Person’ and ‘Retail Sales Outlet of the Year’ awards.
More than 100 delegates attended the event -organised by Junior Chamber Galway - which included a series of seminars, lunch, a keynote speaker address by Galway’s most successful entrepreneur Declan J Ganley, and enterprises ranging from gateaux to security cameras to conference equipment.
Following the success of last year’s winner, Gene Browne of The City Bin Co, many of Galway’s business people now see this competition as a major stepping stone towards promoting their business and giving award winners an edge over their competitors, therefore helping to secure future business.
MacDara Hosty, president of Junior Chamber Galway, said the 2000 awards were a huge success and the professionalism was all down to the dedicated work of the organising committee
“The Young Entrepreneur was developed to highlight and reward the efforts of the many young entrepreneurs currently operating in Galway. Of course this couldn’t happen without the energy and commitment of many different people, including members who under the stewardship of the organising committee (Yolande Barrett, Claire Conlisk, Anne O'Dea, Roger Rabbitte, Rossa Geraghty, and Maura O'Gorman) have created the foundation which allows Young Entrepreneur to take place as one of Galway’s most worthwhile business initiatives.
“I would also like to thank Ronnie O’Gorman at the Galway Advertiser for his interest, commitment and sponsorship which has allowed our members the opportunity to create this wonderful project.”
YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR 2000
Announcing Dawson’s selection as Galway Young Entrepreneur 2000 Ken Johnson of PriceWaterhouse Coopers said it came in recognition of not only his business success with Arqtech Laboratories, but also his contribution to developing it.
Arqtech Laboratories has been progressing steadily since being founded by Michael Dawson and David Dowdall in November 1996. Initially they developed the business of testing genetically engineered drugs for the presence of residual DNA in final drug substances.
In June 1997 an opportunity in the area of water testing and water treatment was identified. Arqtech rapidly developed this market and has established itself as a major force in the water treatment business. In the last four years the turnover of the business has increased by 15 per cent annually.
The company has combined a high quality service with sound financial management to attain its success and currently employs six full-time staff and two part-time.
Now, Arqtech is entering a joint venture with one of the largest engineering consultancy firms in the world in the field area of water treatment and will be providing services to group water schemes and local authorities.
Accepting the award, Dawson said it was a tribute to the entire team that has worked with him throughout the years. “Winning this award is a major boost for the company and will heighten the profile of the organisation. It is also a deserved recognition for all the hard work performed by the entire staff of Arqtech.”
THE FINALISTS
The six finalists included: John Clancy, Celtel (runner-up); Aoife Ni Eochhaidh, Aoife Ni Eochhaidh Physiotherapy (runner-up); Jimmy Cubbard, Ezetrade; Ray O’Connor, Proactive (runner-up); Josephine Cribbin, Connaught College of Hairdressing; and Michael Dawson of Arqtech Laboratories (overall winner).
The Junior Chamber Galway would like to thank exhibitors, speakers, and sponsors (PriceWaterhouse Coopers, Hosty Consulting Ltd, Alphaset, AIB, O’Maille Group, Royal Tara, Boots, Brown Thomas, Western Cellular/Nokia Ireland, Fitness 2000, Pitman Training and Keady Communications) which made it possible to have such an exceptional day. It would also like to thank the Ardilaun House Hotel for the excellent facilities and service.
ARQTECH Laboratories Ltd.,
Unit 5, Kilkerrin Park 3,
Liosbaun Industrial Estate,
Tuam Road,
Galway, Ireland.
E-mail info@arqtech.com
Tel 353 91 771110
Fax 353 91 771464