Merenda MD Ronan Haslette has been named AIBF Leitrim Entrepreneur of the Year 2023 by the All-Ireland Business Foundation (AIBF).  The AIBF are an autonomous national accreditation body tasked with enterprise development and the promotion of Best-in-Class in Irish business.Their Entrepreneur Of The Year Accreditation recognises exceptional entrepreneurs who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation, and success in their respective industries.

AIBF also recognised Merenda with their prestigious Business All-Star Accreditation, awarded to companies that have demonstrated exceptional performance in areas such as customer service, innovation, community engagement, and workplace culture. To achieve this status companies must first undergo a rigorous evaluation process, and the title is a badge of honor that showcases a company's dedication to excellence and continuous improvement.

Announcing the awards, AIBF Board Member Kieran F. Ring extended his congratulations to Ronan:

“This prestigious recognition is a testament to your exceptional leadership and the remarkable impact of Merenda Ltd in the field of manufacturing wood veneer component products for furniture manufacturers worldwide.

Merenda Ltd.'s almost 40-year journey as a family business showcases the enduring dedication and expertise you have brought to the industry.

In addition your initiative in establishing ManorHUB as an executive workspace for rural professionals further showcases your entrepreneurial spirit. This endeavor exemplifies your vision to create opportunities and support the professional community in North Leitrim, North Sligo, South Donegal, North West Cavan, and West Fermanagh.

Your passion for excellence, integrity, and community development has not gone unnoticed, and we commend your commitment to making a positive impact in both the business and social spheres.”

Ronan reacted to to the award, saying:

"I am absolutely thrilled to be accredited as AIBF Leitrim Entrepreneur of the Year 2023. This is a prestigious external quality mark which highlights our sustained commitment in the areas of trust, performance and customer centricity."

Ronan also featured on the AIBF Business Talk podcast where he shares valuable business insights and showcases Merenda's journey with AIBF CEO Elaine Carroll:
https://aibf.ie/times/episode-104-ronan-haslette-succession-planning-and-sustainability-merendas-visionary-outlook/