Stonehouse 25th Anniversary Gold Standard awards
From its formation in 2000 as a result of the merger of two well established groups, National Wholesale Alliance formed in 1961, and Keencost Stores established in 1971
Print17 June 2025
The Stonehouse 25th Anniversary Gold Standard Awards weekend, held at the K Club in Straffan, was a celebration of excellence, achievement, and enduring partnership.
Stonehouse celebrating 25 years
Homestead
White Hat
Marking a quarter-century of success in the FMCG industry, the event brought together Stonehouse members and key suppliers to reflect on the journey so far and to look ahead with renewed energy and purpose.
The weekend was infused with both nostalgia and celebration.
From its formation in 2000 as a result of the merger of two well established groups, National Wholesale Alliance formed in 1961, and Keencost Stores established in 1971.
Recognition
(L-R) Andrew Elliott (Elliott’s Cash & Carry), Michael McBride (John McBride Cranford Ltd.), Janice Gibney (chief operations officer), Ciara Barrett (Barrett’s Cash & Carry), Conor Kilduff (chairman), Seamus Stapleton (Applegreen), Jim Byrne (JR Byrne & Sons Ltd), Cathal Conaty (Conaty Food & Catering Supplies), James Murphy (Byrnes Cash & Carry)
Patrick O’Sullivan (M&P O’Sullivan Ltd), Colin Doyle (H.Murphy, Arklow), Conor Kilduff (chairman), Josy Marshall (Millbrook Foods), Janice Gibney (chief operations officer), Liam Higgins (H.Murphy, Enniscorthy), Jim Callaghan (H.Murphy, New Ross), Hugh Clifford (Perry’s Cash & Carry), Sarah Egan (Sheehan’s Cash & Carry)
Allen Lynch, Kevin Donnelly, Janice Gibney, Peter Slattery, Conor Kilduff
The 25th anniversary served not only as a commemoration of past milestones but also as a platform to recognize the individuals and companies who have contributed to the group’s continued growth.
Janice Gibney, chief operations officer, reflected on some of the challenges faced over the past 25 years and highlighted the resilience of members in navigating, a currency change, major recession, Brexit, a global pandemic, impacts from war and everything else along the way.
She highlighted the current economic uncertainty and the impact it will have on the market and stressed the importance of continued collaboration between suppliers and members to navigate all uncertainties.
“The nature of Stonehouse ensures our members remain independent, which allows them to react to changes in the market quickly, our customer service and customer reach is second to none, which means suppliers can be guaranteed their products will reach every customer in every town and village across Ireland, so it is essential we maintain the strong working relationships we have with each other”.
On the night, the newest member of the group was welcomed, Seery’s Cash & Carry, to the Stonehouse family and recognized M&P O’Sullivan who are celebrating 120 years in business this year.
The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and optimism as both longstanding partners and new members gathered to celebrate shared values and goals.
Shane McBride, Janice Gibney, Conor Kilduff
Mags Condell, Tony Costigan, Conor Kilduff
The centerpiece of the weekend was the Gold Standard Awards ceremony, which honored outstanding achievements across various categories. Fourteen members achieved the Gold Standard Award and were celebrated for their excellence in performance, service, and partnership over the past year. These awards are a reflection of the commitment, resilience, and innovation that define the Stonehouse ethos.
A triple triumph was achieved by McBrides, who were named winners of both the White Hat Sales and Support and the Homestead Sales and Support awards, as well as achieving the Gold Standard Award.
Tayto Snacks were honored with the Promotion of the Year award, recognizing the importance of strong impactful promotional activity that resonates with customers.
The Product of the Year title was awarded to Cadbury Dairy Milk Mini Eggs 8-Square (Mondelez), highlighting the continuous need for innovation and variety to engage customers.
Mags Condell, Jonathan O’Connor, Conor Kilduff
Shane McBride, Janice Gibney, Conor Kilduff
The highlight of the awards evening was the announcement of the prestigious Supplier of the Year 2025, which went to Britvic Ireland. This recognition is a testament to Britvic’s consistent quality, innovation, and unwavering support of the Stonehouse network. Their win was met with resounding applause and highlighted the vital role suppliers play in the success of the industry as a whole.
Throughout the weekend, the luxurious setting of The K Club provided the perfect backdrop for celebration, reflection, and connection. Attendees enjoyed exceptional hospitality, lively networking events, and a shared sense of pride in what has been accomplished over the past 25 years.
As the Stonehouse group looks to the future, the 25th Anniversary Gold Standard Awards weekend served as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through collaboration, unity, dedication, and commitment to excellence.
Read more: Maxol spotlights ‘outstanding’ service stations at Excellence Awards lunch
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