News -
Mayor's Excellence in Business Award

Heritage Irish Crystal established in 1993 by Joe Williams was awarded the 2009 Mayor's Excellence in Business Award at a presentation in City Hall on Wednesday, 28th October. The award is sponsored by the City Enterprise Board and is presented annually to celebrate the success of small city businesses which grow trade nationally and internationally.

The 2009 award recipient joins an auspicious list of previous winners including Dataworks, Waterford Spraoi, Nutri Science and EC Labels, whose achievements have made a significant contribution to the development of the city by creating employment and strengthening the local economy.

Joe Williams, Managing Director of Heritage Irish Crystal started his career as an apprentice glass maker at Waterford Crystal and has over 50 years experience in the crystal manufacturing business. The company is very much a family run business with all of Joe's family involved in various aspects of the business. Heritage Irish Crystal is now successfully marketing its high quality crystal products in Ireland and as far afield as the USA, Canada, UK and Australia.

Cllr. John Halligan, Mayor, congratulated Joe and his family commenting that "It was businesses such as this one which provide the majority of employment in the city and will be of significant importance in assisting our economy back on track". The Mayor noted the wide range of product manufactured at its Bilberry location.

The Mayor presented Joe a specially commissioned crystal vase which was copper wheel etched by Sean Egan Art Glass detailing Reginald's Tower and the new River Suir Bridge to denote the linkages with the city's heritage and hope for a prosperous future. Sean works at the Granary Museum.

Mr. Bertie Rogers, Chairperson, Waterford City Enterprise Board, added his congratulations and stated that "he had worked with Joe in Waterford Crystal and was delighted to see that the company is dedicated to preserving the traditional skills of mouth blown, hand-cut , heavy lead crystal which is still very much a part of our heritage".

Commenting on receipt of the award Mr. Williams said, "We in Heritage Irish Crystal are delighted to receive this award of excellence and thanked the Mayor for awarding the prestigious prize to his company. I am very proud and honoured to accept the award on behalf of all of the staff and employees at Heritage Irish Crystal".

Joe thanked his staff for their hard work and commitment over the years and his customers for their continued support and loyalty. He also thanked the City Enterprise Board and Enterprise Ireland for the support and encouragement received since he commenced trading.

The Mayor concluded the proceedings by wishing the City Enterprise Board directors and staff continued success with their important work in supporting micro business and helping entrepreneurs create sustainable employment in Waterford.

Print media please note: Photographs available from John Power Photography 086-8797525.