Commenting on the win, O'Briens CEO, Fiacra Nagle, said: "To be chosen as Franchise of the Year two years out of three is a real affirmation that our continuous reinvestment in the brand is working for us. Both awards recognise the strength of the O'Briens brand, the quality of service and support we provide, security of investment and the continuous development. Over the past 18 months our group has rolled out a third generation store concept, which ensures we can continue to compete effectively in a very busy market."

Upon receiving his award as Franchise Person of the Year, in recognition of his role as the driving force behind the O'Briens third generation store concept introduced last year, Fiacra Nagle, spoke about the important role the franchise industry plays in the Irish economy.

"The Irish Franchise Industry is one of the enterprise sectors that continues to drive the development of our economy, contributing to employment, new and innovative products for consumers and general wealth creation. I am delighted that O'Briens contributes to the development of the franchise industry in Ireland and also that I may have supported, in some small way personally, to the franchise industry.

"Irish people are entrepreneurial at heart and the Irish franchising industry compliments that energy and drive. As the Irish franchise businesses continue to flourish at home and abroad, the Irish Franchise Association and its executives, particularly Michael Bradley and Chairman John Green, are to be congratulated on their pioneering work. I look forward to working with them as a group to develop our sector."

The Irish Franchise Association annual awards recognise the industry's leading franchise operators and franchise partners, rewarding businesses that have achieved sustainable growth, provide excellent franchise partner support and continue to reinvest in their brand.