Across the county, the vast majority of tourism and hospitality businesses are built on family values, passed from one generation to the next. This generational mindset shapes not only how they grow and adapt, but also how they welcome visitors with warmth, integrity, and a deep love for Kerry itself.

 

Kerry’s Winning Family-Businesses

This year’s winners highlight the depth and diversity of Kerry’s family business community, reflecting both heritage and modern ambition. A total of four Kerry businesses were honoured at the Irish Family Business Awards 2025, held at The Johnstown Estate on Thursday 30 October.”

  • McAuliffe Pig Farms – Agri Family Business of the Year (Gold)

McAuliffe Pig Farms is a multi-generational commercial pig-farming enterprise in County Kerry, committed to sustainability, high welfare standards, and representing the strength of family-run agri-business in Ireland.

Owner Shane McAuliffe is also deeply engaged in his community, actively involved in two local Tidy Towns groups as well as several farming and biodiversity initiatives, reflecting his strong commitment to environmental stewardship and rural development.

''We are delighted to have won Best Agri Family Business of the Year at the Family Business Awards 2025 - a recognition that celebrates excellence, innovation and sustainability in Irish agriculture. The award is a tribute to our entire team - while we are a family business, our staff are our farm family, their skill, care and pride in what they do are at the heart of everything we achieve, and so this recognition belongs to them as much as it does to us.'' 

— McAuliffe Pig Farms

  • Kerry Coaches – Transport & Logistics Family Business of the Year (Gold)

Based in Killarney, Kerry Coaches Ltd is a luxury coach company founded in 1957 and now run by successive generations of the Buckley family. From sightseeing tours to executive travel, the business combines family integrity with operational excellence.

''We were delighted and honored to accept The Transport & Logistics Family Business of the Year award. Kerry Coaches is now in its 67th year and is still going strong. We are lucky enough to have many loyal and hard working staff some of which have been with us for 30 years. Thanks to everyone who helped achieve this award.'' 

— Kerry Coaches

 

  • Jamie Flannery / Dingle Sea Safari – Rising Star Award (Bronze)

Jamie Flannery, the marketing manager for Dingle Sea Safari took home bronze in the rising star category. An inspiring example of the next generation at work. Dingle Sea Safari captures the spirit of adventure and innovation that continues to shape Kerry’s tourism landscape.

“It’s an absolute honour to be recognised in the Rising Star category at this year’s Family Business Awards. Growing up within our family business has given me a real appreciation for the passion, teamwork, and community spirit that drive everything we do at Dingle Sea Safari. I’m incredibly proud to help share the magic of Dingle with the world and to continue building on what my family has created through innovative storytelling, digital marketing, and authentic Irish experiences.”

— Jamie Flannery, Marketing Manager, Dingle Sea Safari

 

  • The James Tralee – Best Small Family Business (Munster)

A new generation of hospitality in the heart of Tralee, The James blends modern design with the warmth and personal touch that comes from family-led vision and passion. Proudly built and run by the O’Carroll family since opening in 2024, it exemplifies the best of family-led boutique hospitality.

''To be recognised among so many incredible businesses across Munster and to bring this award home to Tralee means the world to us.  This one’s for our amazing team who bring their heart and soul into everything we do, our wonderful guests who make The James what it is, and our family who built this hotel on passion, perseverance and pride in Kerry hospitality.”  

—The James ​Hotel

Kerry’s Talent and Ambition

That long-term perspective, grounded in family and place, is what makes Kerry’s business community so remarkable. These awards shine a spotlight on the energy, creativity, and drive within Kerry’s family businesses, highlighting how dedication, teamwork, and community spirit can turn vision into achievement. The Irish Family Business Awards 2025 not only recognise success, but also celebrate the people behind the businesses, their leadership, and the inspiration they provide for future generations in Kerry and beyond.