Pictured at the latest Danske Bank Export First event are Harry Hughes (Portwest); Sandra Scannell (NI Chamber) and Aaron Ennis (Danske Bank).

Harry Hughes, CEO at Mayo based Portwest and 2017 EY Entrepreneur of the Year, shared the inspirational export growth story of his business which was started in Westport by his family in 1904.

The private dinner, which was attended by 25 guests and held at Titanic Belfast formed part of Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Danske Bank Export First initiative which seeks to encourage and grow export activity by providing a vehicle to share the inspirational journeys of some of Northern Ireland’s most successful exporters.

With over 110 years of experience, Portwest is firmly established as a world leader in the design and manufacture of high quality, stylish and comfortable workwear. With global distribution from bases in the UK, Ireland, Poland, Dubai, Australia and the USA, Portwest workwear, safety footwear and PPE protects people across the world in diverse industries such as oil and gas, welding, mining, agriculture, transport, construction, warehousing, manufacturing and more.

Speaking at the event, Harry Hughes, CEO of Portwest, commented:

“Too many businesses think the job is done after the first few years. They have done all the difficult things, such as raising money, buying or renting a property, employing staff, have great products and give a fantastic service. It is after the original hard work that you need to keep that initial business flair and enthusiasm going. Set yourself a clear target each year and then follow through with the plan.”

Sandra Scannell, Head of Business Services at NI Chamber, said:

“We are delighted that our members had the opportunity to hear from Portwest CEO and EY Entrepreneur of the Year, Harry Hughes.  The Portwest export success story is an excellent example to share as NI Chamber continues to encourage and grow export activity in Northern Ireland through inspirational stories and shared learning of successful exporters.”

Click to view photography from this Danske Bank Export First event>

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