The local business community turned out in force for the launch of new corporate and commercial law firm Daly McCormick, filling the Tyrone Suite at the Glenavon Hotel, Cookstown, for the firm’s inaugural Built for Business Breakfast.
Entrepreneurs, business leaders and professional advisers from across Northern Ireland gathered to support founders Claire Daly and Caoimhe McCormick (Lowe) and hear from a panel of some of the region’s most respected business figures.
The event reflected not only the strength of the local business community, but also the relationships the founders of DalyMcCormick have built throughout their careers advising businesses across a wide range of sectors.
Chaired by Jim Fitzpatrick, Consulting Editor of The Irish News and host of the Trading Up podcast, the panel featured Eamonn Laverty, Group Chief Executive of McAleer & Rushe; Stephen Lagan, Co-Founder of Lagan Energy Engineering; Johann Muldoon, Managing Director of Manor Architects; Robert Ewing, Managing Director of Woodvale Construction; and Olivia Burns, Founder of Olivia’s Haven.
Drawing on decades of leadership experience, the panellists shared honest reflections on the realities of building businesses, overcoming challenges and creating organisations capable of long-term success. During the discussion, Stephen Lagan reflected on his experience working with Claire Daly and Caoimhe McCormick (Lowe), highlighting the trust, professionalism and relationships they have developed within the business community over many years. His comments echoed a theme that emerged repeatedly throughout the morning: people do business with people. While industries evolve, markets shift and technology advances, the panel agreed that trust, reputation and strong relationships remain the foundations of successful businesses. The discussion resonated strongly with an audience made up of founders, business owners and advisers, many of whom have built their own careers on those same principles.
That philosophy is central to Daly McCormick. The firm was established to bridge what the founders see as a gap between legal advice and commercial reality. While businesses require expert legal guidance, they also need advisers who understand the wider context in which decisions are made. Daly McCormick works with businesses and the people behind them at every stage of the business lifecycle, providing advice that is practical, commercially focused and aligned with a client’s wider objectives. The firm works closely with their clients and their existing accountants, financial advisers and local solicitors who don’t practice in this area of law, helping clients navigate important decisions while ensuring legal advice supports broader commercial, personal and long-term goals.
The calibre of speakers, the packed room and the strength of support shown by the business community underlined the significance of the event. Long after the formal discussion concluded, attendees remained in conversation, sharing experiences, strengthening relationships and forging new connections.
Speaking after the event, Claire Daly said:
“We were genuinely overwhelmed by the support. Seeing so many business leaders, entrepreneurs and advisers come together for the launch was incredibly special, and we’re grateful to everyone who took the time to join us.”
Caoimhe McCormick (Lowe) added:
“One of the strongest messages from the morning was that people do business with people. The conversations, connections and support we saw throughout the event really brought that to life. We’re excited about the journey ahead and look forward to continuing to support businesses across Northern Ireland.”