Kildare pharmacy wins Irish Pharmacy of the Year Title

Rathangan's Ryan's Pharmacy has been crowned Irish Pharmacy of the Year at the Elavon Retail Excellence Ireland Awards 2025, which were held in Kilkenny on November 15.

The local pharmacy fended off competition from retailers from all over the country to take the title.
Rathangan Manager, Sarah Donnelly said she was incredibly proud, honoured, and thrilled.

“This achievement means so much to us — not just as a business, but as a team and as part of this wonderful community. Winning this award isn’t about one moment or one person; it’s the result of dedication, compassion, teamwork, and a shared commitment to caring for the people who rely on us every day,” she said.

“At Ryan’s Pharmacy we pride ourselves on professionalism, kindness and doing our best daily for the customers. We go above and beyond daily — not because we have to, but because we genuinely care.”

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She thanked all the customers. for their support.

“You are at the heart of everything we do. To our village and wider community: We are deeply grateful for your encouragement, loyalty, and belief in us. This award belongs to all of us, and we are proud to represent our local area on a national stage. We look forward to continuing to serve you with the same passion and commitment that brought us here.”

Pharmacy owner, Shane Ryan is a hands-on, passionate pharmacist, who began his pharmacy journey in 1996 in Rathangan, where he still practices.

A year later, he took over Burke’s Pharmacy in Edenderry, originally run by the well-known Liam Burke. Shane’s love for his profession didn’t stop there.

In 2001, he opened another pharmacy in Derrinturn, followed by pharmacies in Rhode and Daingean. His success allowed him to stay active as a pharmacist while managing multiple locations with his loyal staff’s help.

The Ryan’s Pharmacy brand has grown under his direction, unaffiliated with any large chain. Shane believes this independence allows for a more personal experience for customers, offering them a level of comfort they might not find in big franchises.

There were also two other big winners from Kildare on the night. The Nude Wine Co was named as Small Online Retailer of the Year while Michael Murphy Home Furnishing was named Medium Online Retailer of the Year.