John Rainey named Innovation Founder 2018

Denroy are very pleased to announce that our very own John Rainey has received Catalyst Inc’s Innovation Founder Award 2018 following their Invent Awards ceremony at the Waterfront Conference Centre, Belfast in October 2018.

Catalyst Inc. are a not-for-profit organisation aimed at supporting and encouraging business growth within Northern Ireland and attracting International interest to our local industry. Formerly known as the Northern Ireland Science Park, their focus has been on companies within the areas of science and technology, supporting innovation and growth within the sector.

John Rainey has led the Denroy family business from strength to strength since 1972, developing new products from haircare, automotive, medical and aerospace industries, whilst incorporating the ever-changing technical skills and methods required to keep the business relevant and competitive.

Ian Sheppard, Managing Director of Northern Ireland, Bank of Ireland UK who sponsored the Invent Awards 2018 has commended John’s achievement;

“Under his leadership, Denroy’s success has been fuelled by an ambition to build a world-leading business. Through continually investing in new product development, technical skills and talent, they have not only grown a strong original business but, with vision and innovation, tactically expanded into complementary sectors.”

John Rainey is just the ninth recipient of the prestigious award which began in 2011, joining an esteemed list of Entrepreneurs such as Dr Hugh Cormican of Andor Technology for his contribution to medical imaging, First Derivatives founder Brian Conlan, and James Leckey for his posturally supportive range of disability aids.

At the special lunch for the 12 Invent 2018 finalists, John commented,

“It is a great privilege to receive the Innovation Founder award. I feel especially pleased to be included within such a distinguished group of entrepreneurs. The Denroy Group is a great indigenous company, doing amazing work on a global stage. I would like to share this achievement with the whole Denroy team who have highlighted their passion, commitment and dedication for almost 50 years.”

This title follows the Honorary Doctorate from Queens University Belfast, awarded to John for distinction in business and commerce in 2017 and the MBE he received in 2014 for his outstanding contribution to economic development.