Carrickfergus Enterprise has marked the start of its 45th anniversary celebrations by bringing together tenants, their families and local businesses for a special summer appreciation event, celebrating the thriving business community that has grown from the organisation’s long-standing commitment to supporting enterprise across the borough.
Held at Carrickfergus Enterprise’s Meadowbank Road premises, the event welcomed tenants from across the business centre for an afternoon of networking, refreshments and informal conversation, providing an opportunity to strengthen relationships and create new business connections in a relaxed setting.
The celebration also reflected on Carrickfergus Enterprise’s remarkable journey since it was established in August 1981.
Created by a group of local business leaders, academics and elected representatives in response to the devastating loss of around 6,000 jobs following the closure of major employers including ICI and Courtaulds, the organisation was founded with a clear mission to stimulate economic regeneration and create employment opportunities for the local community.
In its early years, Carrickfergus Enterprise delivered a range of government-funded employment initiatives, including laundry services and Meals on Wheels through the Action for Community Employment (ACE) scheme, providing valuable work opportunities for local people during a challenging period.
The organisation opened its first purpose-built workspace at Meadowbank Road in 1994, expanding further with additional phases in 2000 and 2005. Today, the centre is home to more than 40 businesses employing around 150 people and remains fully occupied.
Chief Executive, Kelli Roberts said: “As we celebrate 45 years, it’s important to recognise that our tenants have always been, and continue to be, at the heart of everything we do.
“While we provide high-quality workspace, we see our role as much more than simply being a landlord. We work hard to create a supportive business community where companies can connect, collaborate and access the advice and support they need to grow.
“It was fantastic to see so many businesses coming together at our tenant appreciation event. Watching people introduce themselves, share ideas and make new connections reminded us exactly why these events are so valuable.
“Being fully occupied is something we’re incredibly proud of, and we believe that comes down to the relationships we’ve built over many years, our strong communication with tenants and our commitment to helping businesses succeed.”
One of the centre’s newest tenants, EVENTS BY Cassidy McCleans, recently relocated to Carrickfergus Enterprise after outgrowing its previous premises. Having operated from dedicated storage facilities, with additional equipment overflow at home, the move to Carrickfergus Enterprise has provided the business with a purpose-built workspace that better supports its day-to-day operations and future growth plans.
Speaking about the move, business owner John-Rhys Cassidy McClean said: “Moving into Carrickfergus Enterprise has been a fantastic step for our business. We had outgrown our previous premises, where we operated from dedicated storage facilities with additional equipment overflow at home, so having a dedicated workspace designed around the needs of the business has made a huge difference.
“Everyone has been so welcoming, and the tenant event was a brilliant opportunity to meet other businesses based here. You immediately feel part of a business community rather than simply renting a unit, and we’re excited about growing our business here.”
Following the success of the summer event, Carrickfergus Enterprise is already planning a festive tenant gathering later this year, with tenants already requesting hot cider and Christmas chips to help celebrate the season together.
As it looks ahead to the future, Carrickfergus Enterprise remains committed to supporting local entrepreneurs, creating opportunities for business growth and continuing the legacy established 45 years ago of investing in the local economy and helping businesses thrive.