Ben ‘honoured to be among greatest entrepreneurs in UK’

Ben ‘honoured to be among greatest entrepreneurs in UK’

27 November 2024

A CASTLEWELLAN teenager has become the youngest ever winner of a prestigious entrepreneur award. 

Fourteen-year-old Ben O’Connor won an award at the prestigious Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards in the retail entrepreneur of the year category recently.

This accolade recognises outstanding entrepreneurial achievements, resilience and the impact a business has made on industry and the community.

Ben won the award for his gift company, known as Giftery, which creates eco-friendly, high-quality gift boxes and burr baskets. They are designed to bring joy to customers while supporting the environment and local communities. 

Ben, who is a pupil at Lecale Trinity Grammar School in Downpatrick, happened to find out about his win while in History class last Monday morning. 

He said: “I am honoured to be among some of the greatest entrepreneurs in the UK and I am thrilled that Giftery got the opportunity to showcase our values and get recognition for our innovative ideas.”

The company has already been recognised for innovative ideas and environmental achievements, becoming Judges’ Choice in the UK Start Up Awards in its first year. Giftery’s products are now stocked in stores across Northern Ireland, including Armagh, Limavady, Castlewellan, Belfast and Kilkeel, and Ben is working hard to grow the business further, with hopes to have its products stocked in 70 stores by 2026. 

Ben has shown business prowess from a young age, having set up his first business when he was just eight years old. 

Currently studying GCSE Business Studies, Ben comes from a farming background and hopes to also have a farm-based business in the future.

Ben’s family and school are proud of his achievements. 

Francesca James, founder of the Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards, commented: “Every year, I’m in awe of the entrepreneurs who come through our programme, and this year is no different.

“The Awards continue to receive thousands of applications annually, reflecting the incredible strength of entrepreneurship across the UK.”

She added: “This year’s winners collectively generate over £3 billion in turnover and employ over 20,000 people. 

“These extraordinary individuals are not only transforming industries but also uplifting communities and inspiring the next generation of business leaders.”

To learn more about Giftery, visit Giftery.site.