A leading family-owned manufacturer of fresh prepared convenience foods, based in Craigavon, is thrilled to celebrate a double victory at the prestigious AIB Business Eye Awards 2025, taking home both the coveted Company of the Year award and the award for Employee of the Year.
Both accolades serve as powerful recognition of the company’s long-standing commitment to its people, sustained growth, and significant investment in its future.
Avondale Foods founded in 1965 by brothers Harry and Derek Geddis, was honoured with the Company of the Year award, recognising its robust performance, commitment to sustainability, and future vision. The company supplies major UK and Irish retailers, including Marks & Spencer, Waitrose, and Dunnes.
Avondale is entering its seventh decade with the second generation of the Geddis family holding key positions within the company and significant expansion plans. This focus on growth is mirrored in its culture, highlighted by the 26 employees who received Long Service Awards in 2025, representing a combined 450 years of service, demonstrating a culture of loyalty and respect.
David McCann, Technical Manager at Avondale Foods, was named Employee of the Year in a win that underscores the company’s commitment to their employees.
David began his career at Avondale Foods in 1999 as a Production Operative. Over 25 years, through dedication and company-supported training, he has progressed through various roles, and now has the role of Technical Manager.
His win specifically recognised his determination to return to education after more than 20 years, successfully gaining his GCSE Maths before commencing a Higher-Level Apprenticeship (HLA) in Food and Drink Manufacture with CAFRE. He is currently leading the company’s “Paperless Project” to enhance the company’s compliance and technical capabilities, David has successfully applied his academic knowledge to strengthen customer relationships by reducing complaint levels and improving KPIs for a key retailer, and actively mentors junior colleagues.
Greer Geddis, Managing Director of Avondale Foods, commented: “As a long-standing business in Northern Ireland, Avondale Foods is thrilled to come home with a double win for both Company of the Year and Employee of the Year. This is both an extraordinary honour and a fantastic recognition of our entire team. Congratulations to David on winning Employee of the year. His career journey with us perfectly embodies the Avondale Foods ethos and our commitment to developing people from the ground up and investing in their potential. Our success is built on the hard work, loyalty, and passion of every person who works here. Congratulations to all other winners and finalists.”
David McCann, Technical Manager and Employee of the Year, added: “I am delighted to take home the award for Employee of the Year. It was an amazing night celebrating alongside my colleagues. Starting as a Production Operative with no clear career plan, I am proud to have progressed to the role of Technical Manager through hard work, and of course the mentorship, and opportunities provided by Avondale Foods.”
