Collection shares top spot in the Sustainability category as Georgie Briota is named Employee of the Year.
Galgorm Collection enjoyed a double success at the Ballymena Business Awards, securing joint first place in the Sustainability category, while Business Development Manager Georgie Briota was crowned Employee of the Year.
Hosted by Ballymena Chamber of Commerce and Industry and compered by Cool FM’s Pete Snodden, the ceremony celebrated the very best of the area’s local businesses.
The Collection’s commitment to embedding environmental responsibility across its operations earned it joint first place in the Sustainability category. Its initiatives span renewable energy, waste reduction, water conservation and biodiversity.
The introduction of filtered still and sparkling water taps in guest rooms has eliminated the need for more than 289,000 plastic and glass bottles, preventing over 25 tonnes of packaging waste. Across the estate, more than 7,500 native trees have been planted, alongside wildflower areas, bee and bug hotels and a nature walk designed to teach guests about local habitats and wildlife. On-site solar technology, improved recycling and responsible golf course management at Galgorm Castle further reduce the Collection’s environmental impact.
Colin Johnston, CEO of Galgorm Collection, said: “Sustainability is something we take very seriously, and we believe that securing the future of our planet is a collective responsibility. We’re incredibly proud to be recognised alongside so many fantastic local businesses, and we’re committed to doing everything in our power to better our community.”
Meanwhile, Georgie joined Galgorm Collection 19 years ago as a waitress in Gillies Restaurant and progressed through leadership roles across Fratelli, Café Parisien and Castle Kitchen and Bar before moving into Business Development in 2024. In that role she manages 32 active sponsorship partnerships and has distributed more than 30,000 Galgorm Perks Cards, helping to build links with schools, sports clubs, charities and businesses across the Ballymena area.
Georgie said: “I was up against some very tough competition, and there were so many worthy winners in this category. I’m delighted and so proud to have been recognised for the work I do.
“I’m really passionate about my role and about making a difference to the business. It’s such a great place to work, and I’m very fortunate to have a team that always champions and encourages me. I’m very grateful to them for the nomination, and I’m truly honoured.”
Colin added: “Georgie started with us as a waitress and has built her career here through hard work. She’s now a real ambassador for Galgorm Collection and for Ballymena, and she’s also the first to step in and help our restaurant teams when they’re busy, which says everything about her. Congratulations to Georgie, our wider team and everyone who was shortlisted.”
Tom Wiggins, Chief Executive at Ballymena Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said: “Galgorm Collection is a mainstay of the Ballymena community, providing high-quality employment opportunities, state-of-the-art facilities and excellent hospitality and leisure experiences.
“The business’s commitment to sustainability thoroughly impressed the judging panel, as did Georgie’s dedication. She was recognised for her strong work ethic and extensive business knowledge.
“Congratulations to Georgie and the entire team at Galgorm Collection, who were very worthy winners against some tough competition.”
As one of Northern Ireland’s leading hospitality groups, employing almost 1,400 people across its portfolio of hotels, restaurants and golf experiences, Galgorm Collection continues to invest in local people and create opportunities that deliver a lasting positive impact within the communities it serves. Its ongoing community engagement programme includes support for schools, sporting organisations, charitable initiatives and educational partnerships across Northern Ireland.
