A former manager of Clare Haven Horizons Charity Superstore in Ennis, has been named Shop Manager of the Year at the annual Charity Retail Ireland Impact Awards.
Mairéad Mannion secured the award ahead of two other shortlisted nominees after impressing the judging panel with her outstanding contribution to charity retail and its community.
Having dedicated more than 20 years to the organisation, Mairead Mannion played a central role in establishing the Clare Haven Horizons charity shop when it first opened in 2013. Under her leadership, the store grew from a 1,000 sq. ft. outlet into a thriving 10,000 sq. ft. charity superstore, incorporating a furniture department and donation depot and becoming one of the best-known charity retail destinations in Clare.
Supporting the work of Haven Horizons, the superstore generates vital funds for services that help women and children affected by domestic abuse and coercive control. Beyond fundraising, the store has become a valued community hub where customers, volunteers and staff from all backgrounds come together in an inclusive and welcoming environment.
Despite being located in an industrial estate away from traditional retail centres, the shop has flourished over the past decade. Known for its strong focus on customer service, creative merchandising and volunteer engagement, the store currently supports between 40 and 50 volunteers, including students, refugees, people with additional support needs and individuals who have benefited from the charity’s services themselves.
Clare Haven Horizons Charity Superstore was recognised at the awards across three additional categories, demonstrating its impact to the overall charity retail sector. It was a finalist in Charity Shop of the Year, Online Presence of the Year and Team Member of the Year for Maksym Chovnyk.
Speaking about the awards, Mark Sweeney, Chair of Charity Retail Ireland, said: “The Charity Retail Ireland Awards celebrate the incredible work of charity retail teams as they support their causes, engage with their communities and promote reuse. Clare Haven Horizons is an excellent example of how innovation, creativity and commitment can generate meaningful social impact while supporting a more sustainable future. We are delighted to recognise the achievements of their team on a national stage.”
For more information, visit charityretail.ie.