Tom Harney honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award

The Tullamore & District Chamber of Commerce proudly honoured Tom Harney of Harney Enterprises with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 Chamber Business Awards, held last Friday night in the Bridge House Hotel.

The award recognises individuals whose long-standing dedication, leadership and contribution have made a lasting impact on business, employment and community life in Tullamore. This year’s recipient, Tom Harney, was celebrated for a remarkable career defined by resilience, vision and a deep commitment to both enterprise and community.

Tom Harney’s journey began in humble surroundings, where the values of hard work, family and perseverance were instilled from an early age. He moved to Tullamore in 1960, a decision that would ultimately shape not only his own future, but also the future of local industry in the town.

Beginning his career with D.E. Williams, Tom spent two decades developing his expertise in the soft drinks sector. Those formative years laid the foundation for what would become a highly successful entrepreneurial journey. In 1984, driven by ambition and a belief in his own vision, he took the significant step of establishing his own business.

Recognising an opportunity in the market, he acquired the PAK cordial brand along with production equipment, setting out to offer quality products at affordable prices. What began as a modest operation soon grew into a thriving enterprise, supplying major retailers including Dunnes Stores, Musgrave and Quinnsworth, and becoming a leading provider of private label beverages across Ireland.

As the business expanded, so too did its impact. In 1989, operations moved to a larger facility in Spollenstown, marking a significant milestone in the company’s growth. Over time, the business evolved into a state-of-the-art production facility, operating to the highest international standards and supplying both Irish and UK markets.

At its peak, production runs around the clock — a testament not only to commercial success but to the sustained demand for quality and reliability that has defined the company’s reputation.

Beyond business success, Tom Harney’s contribution to Tullamore is deeply rooted in employment, opportunity and continuity. His enterprise has provided jobs, developed skills and supported the local economy for decades. Importantly, by acquiring and building upon elements of the D.E. Williams legacy, he helped ensure that Tullamore’s proud tradition in manufacturing would continue into the future.

Central to his journey has been the role of family. Alongside his wife Renee, whose support and partnership were instrumental throughout, Tom built not just a business but a legacy grounded in shared values. Today, that legacy continues through the next generation, with the business remaining firmly rooted in Tullamore while evolving to meet modern demands.

Speaking at the awards, Chamber President Caroline Murphy Collins praised Tom Harney’s exceptional contribution, describing his story as one that reflects the very essence of enterprise:

“Tom’s journey is a powerful example of what can be achieved through vision, resilience and determination. His contribution goes far beyond business success — it is about the jobs created, the opportunities provided and the legacy built within this community. He represents the very best of what our business community stands for.”