Over the past year, key stakeholders including Laois County Council’s Business Support Unit, Local Enterprise Office Laois, Chambers Ireland and Local businesses have been working together to re-establish the Laois Chamber of Commerce.

Their hard work paid off as the new Laois Chamber has reformed under the guidance of new CEO Bernie Everard and President of Laois Chamber, Martin Crowley. This marks a major achievement for businesses in County Laois which has been without a chamber for the past number of years.

Bernie Everard is an experienced business woman. The founder and director of her own artisan gift company Splate, Bernie has been marketing her products to both the Irish and tourist market in the US for many years. Most recently, Bernie has been working with the award winning Kildare Chamber, firstly as a business owner and most recently as their Business Development Manager

Speaking about her new role Bernie said, “I feel privileged to have been offered the role of Chief Executive of the new Laois Chamber.

“My plan is to create a membership organisation for the business community of Laois that will encourage engagement, connection and economic prosperity.”

Bernie will be supported in her role by the newly appointed President of Laois Chamber Martin Crowley. Martin is a hugely successful Laois businessman, best known as the founder of food distribution and wholesale company Wilbar Ltd.

The new Chamber of Commerce is located in the same building as the Laois Tourism office in Lyster Square, Portlaoise adjoining the Public Participation Network building. An official launch event for Laois Chamber will take place on September 24th with further details for follow. For further information on the chamber please contact Bernie Everard on 085 – 256 – 6522 or email bernie@laoischamber.ie

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