The trophy cabinet at James Whelan Butchers is close to bursting as Pat Whelan, innovator and owner, picked up yet another gong at the 2012 All Ireland Marketing Awards held recently at the Burlington Hotel in Dublin. The glittering ceremony, one of the finest in Ireland’s annual business calendar, was hosted by RTE’s Brian Dobson. There are just seventeen categories and James Whelan Butchers was up there among other winners that included household names such as Vodafone Ireland, Harvey Norman, Today Fm, Supervalu and Heineken.
James Whelan Butchers won the Small Business Marketing Award; a huge achievement as it is chosen from the entire country. In the world of marketing these awards are taken very seriously and considered the ‘oscars’ for the marketing profession.
James Whelan Butchers has had an incredible year. While maintaining the integrity of a traditional business built on solid values, Pat Whelan has also managed to successfully harness social media, drive innovative product creation and establish fresh markets despite a time of recession. His ongoing work in introducing Wagyu beef to Ireland was recognised along with the opening of the James Whelan Butchers’ concession in the acclaimed Avoca store in Monkstown, Dublin last December. Pat Whelan was also applauded for developing the profile of his business by expertly using social media. Through Facebook and Twitter platforms, Pat continues to grow a loyal following of people with a special interest in food.
Pat Whelan said, “I’m genuinely thrilled to have won this award, particularly when I know the fantastic small businesses that are doing such great things all over the country. Awards are never the reason for doing anything but it is an honour and I’m humbled and very grateful to receive it.”
However awards do not make Pat Whelan complacent. He has just completed an overhaul of his popular shop in the Oakville Shopping Centre. The ongoing development of Whelan Wagyu beef is a huge passion and will be released to customers in the next few weeks and his continuing search for new ways to connect with people is always at the forefront.
You can experience James Whelan Butchers first hand at the Oakville Shopping Centre in Clonmel or his new butcher shop in Avoca, Monkstown or purchase James Whelan Butchers meat online 24/7 at www.jameswhelanbutchers.com.
Tags: All Ireland Marketing Awards 2012, Berlington Hotel, Best SME 2012, James Whelan Butchers, Pat Whelan
