Frances Kelly

Lily O'Brien's Chocolates

Lily O'Brien's is one of Ireland's leading chocolate manufacturers, boasting approximately 20% share of the Irish premium chocolate confectionery category during key confectionery periods. Founded in 1992 in the Kildare kitchen of Mary Ann O'Brien, the company was named after Mary Ann's eldest daughter, Lily, and since then has grown into a truly global brand with an international reputation for product excellence, innovation and style-driven packaging design. Lily O'Brien's exports to nine markets worldwide and these exports account for approximately 75% of the company's annual turnover. Export markets include the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Portugal. Primarily focused on the retail channel, the company also boasts a strong foodservice presence with longstanding relationships with top international airlines, railways and hotels. Named "Irish Enterprise of the Year"​ by Business and Finance in 2009, the company has been recognized often over the past decade for its excellence in entrepreneurship, innovation and commitment to driving sales through exports.