Latest news with #Alkermes
Globe and Mail
22-07-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
ALKS Down Despite Positive Top-Line Data From Narcolepsy Study
Alkermes ALKS announced positive top-line data from the phase II Vibrance-1 study, which evaluated its novel, investigational, and oral orexin 2 receptor agonist, alixorexton (formerly ALKS 2680), for treating patients with narcolepsy type 1 (NT1). In the Vibrance-1 study, patients were randomized to receive alixorexton (4 mg, 6 mg or 8 mg) or placebo to be taken once daily for six weeks. Data from the study showed that treatment with alixorexton across all doses led to a statistically significant, clinically meaningful and dose-dependent improvement from baseline versus placebo in wakefulness on the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT) — the study's primary endpoint. Treatment with alixorexton across all doses demonstrated statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvements from baseline in excessive daytime sleepiness versus placebo at week six on the Epworth Sleepiness Scale — a key secondary endpoint of the Vibrance-1 study. Although all three doses of alixorexton led to improvements in weekly cataplexy rates — also a key secondary endpoint of the study — only the 6 mg dose achieved statistical significance. This might have hurt investor sentiment and caused the stock to decline 8.8% yesterday. Also, treatment with once-daily alixorexton led to robust and clinically meaningful improvements in patient-reported outcomes for excessive daytime sleepiness, fatigue and cognition compared to placebo. Treatment with alixorexton across all doses was generally safe and well-tolerated. ALKS' Price Performance Shares of Alkermes have declined 7.3% so far this year compared with the industry 's decrease of 2.2%. Building on the overall success of the Vibrance-1 study, management is planning to initiate a global phase III program for alixorexton in patients with NT1. NT1 is a chronic sleep disorder causing excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden muscle weakness called cataplexy due to orexin deficiency. We note that orexin agonists like alixorexton directly target the brain's orexin system — the root cause of NT1. Unlike other available drugs that only fight sleepiness, orexin agonists may also prevent cataplexy, offering a more natural and complete treatment approach. This can make them a promising and transformative treatment in narcolepsy care. The detailed safety and efficacy data from the phase II Vibrance-1 study are expected to be presented at an upcoming scientific conference. ALKS' Other Development Activities With Alixorexton Besides NT1, alixorexton is also being studied for the treatment of narcolepsy type 2 ('NT2') and idiopathic hypersomnia ('IH'). The phase II Vibrance-2 study is evaluating the safety and efficacy of alixorexton versus placebo in adults with NT2. Enrollment in this study is expected to be completed shortly, with data from the same expected during fall. In April 2025, the company initiated the phase II Vibrance-3 study, evaluating the safety and efficacy of alixorexton in adults with idiopathic hypersomnia, a rare, chronic and neurological sleep disorder. Per management, if successfully developed and upon potential approval, alixorexton can serve an area of high unmet medical need in the treatment of NT1 and NT2 as well as IH. However, upon potential approval, alixorexton is likely to face competition from Axsome 's AXSM Sunosi (solriamfetol), which is presently marketed in the United States for the treatment of narcolepsy. Several label expansion studies on solriamfetol are also currently underway. Axsome acquired the U.S. rights for Sunosi from Jazz Pharmaceuticals JAZZ in May 2022. AXSM began selling Sunosi in the U.S. market in May 2022. JAZZ received approval for Sunosi as a treatment for narcolepsy in 2019. Jazz's other sleep disorder drugs, Xyrem and Xywav, also hold a strong market share. ALKS' Zacks Rank & Stock to Consider Alkermes currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). A better-ranked stock in the biotech sector is Arvinas ARVN, sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) at present. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank stocks here. In the past 60 days, estimates for Arvinas' 2025 loss per share have narrowed from $1.60 to $1.51. Loss per share estimates for 2026 have narrowed from $3.28 to $2.98 during the same period. ARVN stock has plunged 60.7% year to date. Arvinas' earnings beat estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, delivering an average surprise of 82.09%. Zacks' Research Chief Names "Stock Most Likely to Double" Our team of experts has just released the 5 stocks with the greatest probability of gaining +100% or more in the coming months. Of those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian highlights the one stock set to climb highest. This top pick is a little-known satellite-based communications firm. Space is projected to become a trillion dollar industry, and this company's customer base is growing fast. Analysts have forecasted a major revenue breakout in 2025. Of course, all our elite picks aren't winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks' Stocks Set to Double like Hims & Hers Health, which shot up +209%. Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners Up Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Alkermes plc (ALKS): Free Stock Analysis Report Jazz Pharmaceuticals PLC (JAZZ): Free Stock Analysis Report Axsome Therapeutics, Inc. (AXSM): Free Stock Analysis Report Arvinas, Inc. (ARVN): Free Stock Analysis Report
Yahoo
21-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Alkermes narcolepsy drug headed for late-stage testing
This story was originally published on BioPharma Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily BioPharma Dive newsletter. A potential multibillion-dollar drug is advancing to late-stage testing now that its developer, Alkermes, has in hand positive results from a smaller study focused on a certain kind of narcolepsy. According to Alkermes, the study found all three doses of its drug under evaluation were significantly better than a placebo at improving scores on a test that places participants in a quiet, dark, peaceful room and monitors how awake and alert they are. Alkermes described the results as clinically meaningful, and said all the drug-treated groups achieved 'normative wakefulness' — in this case, taking more than 20 minutes to fall asleep. All doses of the drug, previously dubbed ALKS 2680 and now named alixorexton, were also generally well tolerated. Alkermes said there were no so-called serious treatment-emergent adverse events. Nor were there any treatment-related safety signals seen in participants' vital signs, or on liver, kidney and eye exams. The clinical trial specifically enrolled people with narcolepsy type 1, which, along with excessive sleepiness, is characterized by sudden loss in muscle control. Alkermes intends to present more detailed data at a medical meeting in Singapore in September. In the meantime, an extension study in which all participants from the main trial receive alixorexton is still running. So are a couple other experiments assessing the drug in adults with narcolepsy type 2, or a sleep disorder known as idiopathic hypersomnia. Craig Hopkinson, who serves as Alkermes' chief medical officer while also leading the company's research and development, said in a statement that his team is 'moving forward expeditiously' to start a global Phase 3 testing of the drug. The fresh data are an 'important stride forward' for the alixorexton program, he said, as well as for Alkermes' broader portfolio of therapies that amplify orexin 2 proteins. These results arrived just a week after Takeda announced its own orexin drug, oveporexton, hit the main goals of two late-stage trials, giving the Japan-based pharmaceutical giant the confidence to plan to file for marketing approval in the U.S. and elsewhere by the end of March. Jefferies analyst Stephen Barker wrote in a note to clients that oveporexton could reach $3 billion in peak yearly sales just as a treatment for narcolepsy Type 1. Trailing Takeda are Alkermes and several other companies, including Eisai, Jazz Pharmaceuticals and Centessa Pharmaceuticals. They're each trying to break what Wall Street expects to be a lucrative market, with some estimates holding that between 135,000 and 200,000 people in the U.S. alone have narcolepsy. Johnson & Johnson has an experimental, orexin 2-targeting medicine as well, though it's being developed as a therapy for adult and elderly patients who have major depressive disorder with insomnia symptoms. Joseph Thome, an analyst at TD Cowen, last month reported that his team expects annual sales of Alkermes' drug to peak at $2 billion. That estimate factors in approvals for both narcolepsy type 1 and 2. Whether Alkermes shareholders will be as bullish remains to be seen. Evercore ISI analyst Umer Raffat wrote that many investors 'were on the sidelines' regarding the company's orexin program ahead of Monday's disclosure. They may still be. Alkermes' share price was down by as much as 10% Monday morning, before rebounding somewhat to trade down around 5%. Recommended Reading Takeda to seek approval of new kind of narcolepsy drug after study data
Associated Press
21-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Alkermes Announces Positive Topline Results From Vibrance-1 Phase 2 Study of Once-Daily Alixorexton in Patients With Narcolepsy Type 1
– Alixorexton Demonstrated Clinically Meaningful and Statistically Significant Improvements in Wakefulness at All Doses Tested Compared to Placebo in Patients With Narcolepsy Type 1 – – Alixorexton Demonstrated Robust and Consistent Improvements in Patient-Reported Outcomes Related to Disease Severity, Fatigue and Cognition at All Doses Tested – – Alixorexton Was Generally Well Tolerated at All Doses Tested – – Detailed Results to Be Presented at Upcoming World Sleep Congress – – Data Support Advancement of Alixorexton to Phase 3 Development in Narcolepsy – DUBLIN, July 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Alkermes plc (Nasdaq: ALKS) today announced positive topline results from the randomized double-blind treatment period of the Vibrance-1 phase 2 study evaluating alixorexton in patients with narcolepsy type 1 (NT1). Alixorexton, formerly referred to as ALKS 2680, is the company's novel, investigational, oral orexin 2 receptor (OX2R) agonist in phase 2 development as a once-daily treatment for NT1, narcolepsy type 2 (NT2) and idiopathic hypersomnia (IH). In Vibrance-1, alixorexton met the primary endpoint across all doses tested, demonstrating statistically significant, clinically meaningful and dose-dependent improvements from baseline compared to placebo in wakefulness on the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT). In addition to achieving normative wakefulness across all dose groups on the MWT (mean sleep latency >20 minutes), once-daily alixorexton demonstrated robust and clinically meaningful improvements compared to placebo on patient-reported outcomes related to excessive daytime sleepiness and other key symptoms such as fatigue and cognition. Alixorexton was generally well tolerated at all doses tested. These data support rapid initiation of a global phase 3 program of alixorexton in patients with NT1. 'These compelling results demonstrated that once-daily alixorexton normalized wakefulness and excessive daytime sleepiness scores in highly symptomatic patients with narcolepsy type 1 with a generally well tolerated profile across all doses tested. In addition, the initial data from patient-reported outcome measures related to fatigue and cognition are truly exciting and highlight the breadth of benefit that alixorexton may provide across multiple facets of narcolepsy. There is a clear and pressing need for new therapies for narcolepsy type 1, as patients continue to face a range of persistent symptoms that disrupt their day-to-day lives,' said Giuseppe Plazzi, M.D., Ph.D., Neurologist, Director of the Narcolepsy Center at the IRCCS of the Neurological Sciences of Bologna and Professor of Childhood Neuropsychiatry at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia. 'These exciting data underscore the transformative potential of orexin 2 receptor agonists for the treatment of narcolepsy type 1 and highlight the differentiated features of alixorexton.' 'Data from Vibrance-1 further characterize the clinical profile of alixorexton across a range of once-daily doses in a multiweek study in patients with narcolepsy type 1. Based on the positive outcomes across multiple symptoms important to patients, we are moving forward expeditiously to initiate a global phase 3 program. We look forward to sharing detailed data from Vibrance-1 at the World Sleep meeting in September,' said Craig Hopkinson, M.D., Chief Medical Officer and Executive Vice President, Research & Development at Alkermes. 'These positive topline data represent an important stride forward for the alixorexton development program and Alkermes' broader portfolio of orexin 2 receptor agonists. Alkermes is at the forefront of development in this exciting potential therapeutic category, and these data support our hypothesis that the therapeutic potential of orexin 2 receptor agonists extends beyond improvements in wakefulness to other symptoms such as fatigue and cognition in narcolepsy.' Vibrance-1 is a global, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multiple dose phase 2 study conducted in patients with NT1 (n=92). Patients were randomized (1:1:1:1) to receive a once-daily dose of alixorexton (4 mg, 6 mg or 8 mg) or placebo for six weeks. Primary Endpoint Key Secondary Endpoints Exploratory Patient-Reported Outcome Measures Alixorexton demonstrated consistent and clinically meaningful improvements across a number of patient-reported outcome measures of symptoms important to patients including, but not limited to, the following (reported p-values are nominal): Alixorexton was generally well tolerated across all doses tested in the randomized double-blind period of the Vibrance-1 study. No treatment-emergent serious adverse events were reported. Most treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were mild to moderate in severity and were generally consistent with the events observed across the alixorexton phase 1 program in healthy volunteers and patients with NT1, NT2 and IH. There were no treatment-related safety signals observed in hepatic and renal parameters, vital signs, or ophthalmic exams. More than 95% of patients who participated in the six-week double-blind portion of the trial entered into the seven-week open-label extension, which is ongoing. Alkermes plans to present detailed safety and efficacy results from the Vibrance-1 phase 2 study in an oral presentation at the upcoming World Sleep Congress, taking place Sept. 5-10, 2025 in Singapore. Vibrance-2 and Vibrance-3, phase 2 studies evaluating the safety and efficacy of alixorexton in adults with NT2 (NCT06555783) and IH (NCT06843590), respectively, are ongoing. About the Vibrance-1 Phase 2 Study (NCT06358950) Vibrance-1 is a phase 2, randomized, double-blind, dose-range-finding, placebo-controlled study evaluating the safety and efficacy of alixorexton (formerly referred to as ALKS 2680) in adults with narcolepsy type 1 (NT1). Participants (n=92) were randomized to receive one of three doses of alixorexton (4 mg, 6 mg or 8 mg) or placebo to be taken once-daily for six weeks. The primary endpoint assessed whether participants taking alixorexton experienced an improvement in wakefulness compared to participants taking placebo, as measured by the change from baseline in mean sleep latency on the maintenance of wakefulness test (MWT) at week six. Secondary endpoints included change from baseline in Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) score and mean weekly cataplexy rate (WCR) at week six, and incidence of adverse events. The study also included a number of patient-reported outcome measures, which evaluated the effect of alixorexton on participants' disease severity, fatigue and cognition. All participants in the double-blind portion of the study were eligible to continue to a seven-week open-label safety extension portion of the study, followed by a long-term safety study. About Alixorexton Alixorexton (formerly referred to as ALKS 2680) is a novel, investigational, oral, selective orexin 2 receptor (OX2R) agonist in development as a once-daily treatment for narcolepsy type 1 (NT1), narcolepsy type 2 (NT2) and idiopathic hypersomnia (IH). Orexin, a neuropeptide produced in the lateral hypothalamus, is considered to be the master regulator of wakefulness due to its activation of multiple, downstream wake-promoting pathways that project widely throughout the brain.6 Targeting the orexin system may address excessive daytime sleepiness across hypersomnolence disorders, whether or not deficient orexin signaling is the underlying cause of disease.7 Once-daily oral administration of alixorexton was previously evaluated in a phase 1 study in healthy volunteers and patients with NT1, NT2 and IH, and is currently being evaluated in the phase 2 Vibrance-1, Vibrance-2 and Vibrance-3 studies in patients with NT1, NT2 and IH, respectively. About Alkermes plc Alkermes plc is a global biopharmaceutical company that seeks to develop innovative medicines in the field of neuroscience. The company has a portfolio of proprietary commercial products for the treatment of alcohol dependence, opioid dependence, schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder, and a pipeline of clinical and preclinical candidates in development for neurological disorders, including narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia. Headquartered in Ireland, Alkermes also has a corporate office and research and development center in Massachusetts and a manufacturing facility in Ohio. For more information, please visit Alkermes' website at Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements set forth in this press release constitute 'forward-looking statements' within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, including, but not limited to, statements concerning: the potential therapeutic and commercial value of alixorexton (formerly referred to as ALKS 2680) and the company's expectations regarding the alixorexton development program. The company cautions that forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain. Although the company believes that such statements are based on reasonable assumptions within the bounds of its knowledge of its business and operations, the forward-looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees and they are necessarily subject to a high degree of uncertainty and risk. Actual performance and results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements due to various risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties include, among others: whether initial clinical results for alixorexton will be predictive of results of future stages of ongoing clinical studies, future clinical studies or real-world results; whether ongoing or future clinical studies for alixorexton will be initiated or completed on expected timelines or at all; whether alixorexton could be shown to be ineffective or unsafe; potential changes in the cost, scope and duration of the alixorexton development program; and those risks and uncertainties described under the heading 'Risk Factors' in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2024 and in subsequent filings made by the company with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which are available on the SEC's website at Existing and prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. Except as required by law, the company disclaims any intention or responsibility for updating or revising any forward-looking statements contained in this press release. 1 All p-values presented are unadjusted for multiplicity. 2 Epworth Sleepiness Scale: 8-item self-administered questionnaire that measures severity of excessive daytime sleepiness across multiple conditions over the past 7 days (≤10 = normative). 3 Narcolepsy Severity Scale: 15-item self-administered questionnaire (score: 0-57) that assesses the severity and consequences of the five major narcolepsy symptoms such as daytime sleepiness, cataplexy, hallucinations, sleep paralysis, and disturbed nighttime sleep over the past 7 days. 4 British Columbia Cognitive Complaints Inventory: 6-item self-administered questionnaire (score: 0-18) assessing perceived problems with concentration, memory, expressing thoughts, word finding, slow thinking, and difficulty solving problems over the past 7 days. 5 PROMIS Fatigue: 6-item self-administered questionnaire designed to assess a patients' fatigue over the past 7 days. 6 Buysse, D. Diagnosis and assessment of sleep and circadian rhythm disorders. Journal of Psychiatric Practice. 2005; 11(2):102-115 7 Ten-Blanco M, Flores A, Cristino L, Pereda-Perez I. Targeting the orexin/hypocretin system for the treatment of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases: From animal to clinical studies. Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology. 2023;69(101066). Alkermes Contacts: For Investors: Sandy Coombs, +1 781 609 6377 For Media: Gretchen Murphy, +1 781 609 6419 View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Alkermes plc
Globe and Mail
16-07-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Analysts Offer Insights on Healthcare Companies: AbbVie (ABBV) and Alkermes (ALKS)
Companies in the Healthcare sector have received a lot of coverage today as analysts weigh in on AbbVie (ABBV – Research Report) and Alkermes (ALKS – Research Report). Elevate Your Investing Strategy: Take advantage of TipRanks Premium at 50% off! Unlock powerful investing tools, advanced data, and expert analyst insights to help you invest with confidence. Make smarter investment decisions with TipRanks' Smart Investor Picks, delivered to your inbox every week. AbbVie (ABBV) Leerink Partners analyst David Risinger maintained a Buy rating on AbbVie on July 10. The company's shares closed last Monday at $191.52. According to Risinger is a 5-star analyst with an average return of 9.1% and a 54.3% success rate. Risinger covers the Healthcare sector, focusing on stocks such as Structure Therapeutics, Inc. Sponsored ADR, Centessa Pharmaceuticals, and Vertex Pharmaceuticals. ;'> AbbVie has an analyst consensus of Moderate Buy, with a price target consensus of $212.00, implying a 10.6% upside from current levels. In a report issued on June 30, William Blair also maintained a Buy rating on the stock. Alkermes (ALKS) Leerink Partners analyst Marc Goodman maintained a Hold rating on Alkermes on July 11. The company's shares closed last Monday at $29.69. According to Goodman is a 4-star analyst with an average return of 4.5% and a 47.0% success rate. Goodman covers the Healthcare sector, focusing on stocks such as Amylyx Pharmaceuticals Inc, ACADIA Pharmaceuticals, and Avadel Pharmaceuticals. ;'> Alkermes has an analyst consensus of Moderate Buy, with a price target consensus of $40.00, representing a 32.5% upside. In a report issued on July 7, RBC Capital also maintained a Hold rating on the stock with a $40.00 price target.
Times
11-07-2025
- Business
- Times
Best places to work in Ireland: A to Z
Careers can take off at this small Dublin aviation finance technology specialist. As well as offering graduate and internship schemes, it nurtures professional development of its 33 staff through internal mentoring and externally run programmes, with a particular focus on aviation industry knowledge. Established as a standalone company in 2020, Aerlytix, which specialises in the aircraft leasing sector, was ranked 21st in the Deloitte 2024 Technology Fast 50 list of Ireland's fastest-growing technology companies and recently secured €455,000 through an Enterprise Ireland grant to develop products and services. The business, which also has a team in Cork, offers hybrid working and allows its employees to work from abroad for two weeks at any time during the year. Monthly 'free lunch Friday' outings get people out of the office and talking to each other, and benefits include bonus holiday days. Employees taking part in our survey think the company is flying high, too, returning a 91 per cent overall engagement score and an 89 per cent mark for Helping to improve the lives of people with complex neurological and psychiatric disorders motivates staff at this medium-size biopharmaceutical company. Based in Dublin, with an office and R&D centre in Massachusetts and a manufacturing facility in Ohio, Alkermes develops treatments for conditions including opioid dependence, schizophrenia and narcolepsy. Remote and flexible working helps the 105-strong Irish team juggle their jobs and personal lives. Goal-setting and regular one-to-ones with managers nurture professional growth, and employees are encouraged to create long-term development plans to identify skills they want to cultivate. Performance bonuses and a profit-sharing scheme ensure effort is rewarded; other perks include an annual healthcare allowance, social events, volunteering opportunities, generous holiday, and equity for eligible employees. Survey respondents aged 55-plus returned a 90 per cent engagement score, while 16 to 34-year-olds were not far behind on 89 per It's all systems go at this small Dublin specialist fitout contractor, where staff work on projects across Ireland, from restaurants to nursing homes, cinemas to office refurbishments. Several of the 16 employees have been with the company since it was founded in 2010. Managing director David Brouder operates an open-door policy, making communication easy, and regularly checks in with staff. Employees are encouraged to undertake training that benefits both them and the company, which counts Marconi, Novo Nordisk, Abbott Medical Optics and Virgin Media among its clients. Regular social events aim to boost wellbeing and camaraderie among the team – and it seems to work, according to this glowing review from one employee: 'We are not just work colleagues, we are a family, and anyone who joins automatically becomes one of the family.' The business scores 89 per cent for overall engagement and 87 per cent for wellbeing in our This small financial advisory firm nurtures its assets, including its 12 employees. Based in Little Island, Co Cork, Alpha Wealth manages an investment portfolio in excess of €250 million on behalf of more than 4,000 customers. A tailored employee development programme aims to enhance individual and team performance through professional coaching, and staff can get funding for any course that will further their professional development. Remote, hybrid and in-person working options offer flexibility and regular strategic updates, while requests for feedback from the management advisory board create a sense of involvement and ownership among the team. The expanding business, which plans to double its workforce over the next 12 months, ensures staff are given early finishes during busy periods to prevent burnout. Regular social events, gym membership and wellness initiatives and quarterly performance-based bonuses also keep spirits high, with survey respondents returning a 97 per cent overall score for engagement and 96 per cent for • Best places to work 2025: These employers have what it takes to make their staff feel fulfilled This Co Dublin town planning consultancy gets strong approval from its 15 staff. Founded by Laura Brock and Suzanne McClure in 2012, the business also has a team in Mayo and offers a nationwide service which includes large-scale residential developments, planning applications and environmental assessments. Its lifelong learning approach helps employees develop at every stage of their careers, from exposure to challenging projects to courses, conferences, networking events and monthly lunch and learns. The straight-talking, open and transparent culture empowers staff to ask questions or troubleshoot directly with directors, who have input into each project. Remote/hybrid working options, extra paid time off at Christmas, performance-related bonuses and an employee recognition programme keep staff feeling motivated with survey respondents returning a 98 per cent score for overall engagement and 96 per cent for wellbeing. Key personal and professional milestones are also celebrated with gifts, champagne and office This communications specialist wants to bring out the best in people, including its 28 employees. Everybody has their own personal and professional development plan, and monthly one-to-ones with managers focus on progress, wellbeing, coaching and tailored support. The small Dublin operation provides a range of services from media strategy and public relations to internal communications and training. It also has a team that provides coverage of EU-funded research and projects. A policy of promoting from within means the team knows there is room for them to grow here. Flexible hybrid working, access to an on-site barber, breakfast mornings, manicures and yoga foster work/life balance and wellbeing, for which it scores 92 per cent in our survey. Spot bonuses, a Christmas bonus, team shout-outs, a birthday gift card and Easter treats ensure employees feel appreciated, and events organised by the social and culture club add fun to the mix. Female survey respondents returned a 93 per cent score for This fast-growing software automation company has not lost the human touch. It hosts quarterly lunches and team bonding activities and has created an entertainment zone at its Dundalk headquarters with pool tables, table tennis and golf simulators. The medium-size company, which has doubled its headcount to 60 during the past 18 months, works across industries including pharmaceuticals, food, marine, construction and packaging: its automation enables autonomous aqua drones to navigate the seas and robots to assemble complex products. In addition to regular training programmes, staff are encouraged to pursue further professional qualifications while international projects offer opportunities for travel. The firm has offices in Limerick and Belfast, with plans for a fourth location and two new manufacturing sites, which are expected to create more than 80 new jobs. Perks for staff include a new phone and laptop and private healthcare. Ethnic minority survey respondents returned an 87 per cent score for engagement, with the figure for female participants being 86 per Future Street is on a mission to make every city and town in Europe cleaner and smarter. The small company, with its headquarters in Dublin and offices in Spain, Italy, France, Germany and the UK, is the authorised distributor of the Bigbelly brand of smart solar-powered compacting waste bins – including for the Vatican City. There are already 9,000 of them across Europe, and with a capacity of 600 litres – up to eight times greater than traditional bins – they reduce collections by up to 80 per cent and cut CO2 emissions. The company, which also supplies smart recycling stations, has a tight-knit team of 14 who report that it's a neat place to work. 'Each employee turns up with a smile every morning,' says one member of staff. Flexible working hours, wellness initiatives and supportive hands-on management create a positive working environment. Regular social evenings and additional leave days also boost wellbeing, for which it gets an 87 per cent score in our The global team bonding trip is an annual highlight at this award-winning event management company. The small Dublin-based agency, which has offices in Galway and London, whisked its 23 staff off to Iceland in January, with a visit to Dubai planned for 2026. It also hosts biannual 24-hour retreats at bougie venues, most recetly The Lodge at Ashford Castle in Mayo. The business, which won a slew of awards at the Event Impact Awards 2025, runs wellness initiatives and offers free gym membership and access to the Headspace mental-health app. It also has a strict non-contact policy when employees are off work or on holiday. Every team member meets with a director at least every six months, and chief executive James Gavin is available for any conversation, big or small. Other perks include tickets to major music and sporting events. All this results in an 89 per cent engagement score among female respondents and an 87 per cent score among those aged This small logistics company ensures its clients' goods are always on the move, but its small workforce are in no hurry to go anywhere. Almost half of the 28 staff have clocked up five or more years' service with the Dublin firm, including seven who have been on the payroll for more than a decade. Founded by Martin Cunningham and Terry Allen in 2007, the business helps companies move products, from oysters and cosmetics to medicines, from anywhere in the world to anywhere in the world. It provides air, road and sea freight, customs clearance, warehousing, distribution and courier services. Staff are aligned to specific customers and look after all of their requirements. Personalised development plans, external courses, internal training and mentorship keep employees motivated and growing professionally. The subsidised staff social club and company-funded events, including summer lunchtime barbecues, foster a strong team spirit. It gets a 95 per cent score for wellbeing and for engagement among survey respondents aged Staff think this small green energy specialist is a pretty ideal place to work. Founded in 2019, the Malahide business designs and supplies renewable and energy products for homeowners and businesses. Customers know it primarily through its brands, which include Ideal Heating, Gledhill, Orcon and Hive. A flexible work schedule and opportunities for career progression keep the close-knit team of 19 feeling motivated, while wellness days and increased annual leave boost morale. Monthly feedback sessions ensure staff have their say, further contributing to the positive working environment. This energy translates into a 95 per cent score for wellbeing in our survey and an overall 94 per cent engagement score. 'Our staff love coming to work – I think this is the best sign of a great place to work,' says one team Staff at this Dublin professional security specialist enjoy being part of the crowd. Founded by Shea McNelis and Pat Byrne, the company provided security for more than a million people at events across Ireland last year, from St Patrick's Festival to the Amgen Irish Open and Electric Picnic. The medium-size firm, which also supplies security staff for corporate gatherings and private functions as well as retail and other premises, aims to make the industry a stable and rewarding career choice for its 230 employees. Training ranges from manual handling and basic first aid to higher-tier crowd management, pit supervisor and crowd supervisor qualifications. There are also curated courses for supervisor level and above to ensure staff have a fundamental understanding of how the business runs. The team, who represent 27 nationalities, enjoy flexible work schedules, employee of the month/year awards and social events. Respondents aged 55+ returned a 91 per cent engagement Knowing that what they do makes a difference keeps employees at Ireland's national child protection charity highly motivated. ISPCC (Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) provides a range of services under the Childline brand, including 24-hour listening, online chat, therapeutic interventions and digital mental-health and wellbeing programmes. Based in Co Dublin with staff in Cork, Limerick, Mayo, Galway and Monaghan, the medium-size organisation runs a shadow training programme and suicide awareness and trauma courses for non-clinical employees to give them a deeper understanding what the organisation does. The wellbeing team organises events including a book club, lunch and learns and mindfulness sessions. ISPCC, which has moved to a purpose-built headquarters in Dún Laoghaire, offers flexible working options, including 50 per cent hybrid as well as reduced hours and part-time – the latter two taken up by 44 per cent of the 83-strong team. Staff get their birthday off and additional leave after five and ten years' service. There is a 90 per cent engagement score among LGBTQIA+ employees in our A new monthly continuing professional development programme focusing on technical training and soft skills helps ensure staff keep growing professionally at this small Dublin-based accountancy firm. Malone & Co provides accounting, auditing, bookkeeping and payroll services as well as tax advice to clients nationwide and internationally. Remote and hybrid working options allow the 45 employees to do their job from home or create flexible schedules that suit them. Team-building activities including hikes and challenges and monthly celebrations foster a friendly workplace culture. In March, the firm held its first town hall bringing the staff and leadership together to discuss goals for 2025, ensuring everyone knows the plan. A new policy gives employees a paid day off on their birthday. Malone & Co gets a 95 per cent engagement score among 16 to 34-year-old respondents and 93 per cent among ethnic minority survey The 65 employees at this beauty products business in Blarney, Co Cork, can look and feel good with a 40 per cent staff discount on purchases. Headed by Kieran Walsh, a former contestant on The Apprentice, the medium-size company is an importer and wholesaler for the hair, beauty and cosmetics industry and manufactures and distributes Irish beauty brands, including Bare by Vogue Williams. It fosters an inclusive culture, with gender-neutral hiring practices encouraging people to bring their authentic selves to work, and keeps tabs on how people are feeling with weekly one to ones. Leadership learning labs, cross-functional project work and annual performance and career development reviews keep staff growing professionally. A running club, wellness events and regular socials keep morale high at the company, which was SME winner at the Cork Company of the Year Awards 2025. That's reflected in an 89 per cent overall engagement score and an 88 per cent score for wellbeing in our Everyone at this small management consultancy is assigned a career coach and buddy, and structured training and development programmes promote professional growth among the 32-strong team. The Dublin-based business also has offices in Edinburgh and Belfast; its clients include Northern Ireland Water and Scottish Water. Employees are involved in shaping the workplace culture, from wellbeing and corporate social responsibility to business strategy. The company has introduced mental-health first aiders, enhanced training and established cultural clubs after employee input and feedback. The team can work from anywhere for two weeks a year, switch bank holidays for cultural or personal reasons and buy up to 10 additional days' leave. The B Corp, which does pro bono work for staff-nominated charities, is a living wage employer and offers benefits including an annual profit-share bonus, private healthcare, all-company events, quarterly off-sites and gym vouchers. It gets an 86 per cent score for overall engagement and 85 per cent for Staff like the treatment they get at this small Dublin physiotherapy business. Founded in 2001 by chief executive and clinical director David Dalton, the company focuses on the happiness and wellbeing of staff as well as patients. It accommodates a range of working options across its five clinics, including hybrid, part time, flexi time and flexi leave. Training budgets ensure that the 45-strong workforce develop professionally, while Me days and birthday leave make the team, which includes chartered physiotherapists, athletic therapists and sports massage therapists, feel valued as individuals. Opportunities to give feedback and an open-door policy mean staff know their voice will be heard. Quarterly staff outings keep spirits high and strengthen bonds among the staff, who enjoy benefits including bonus payments and free physio Relationships matter at Provident CRM. The small Dublin business, which specialises in customer relationship management, marketing automation and business process improvement, fosters a culture of collaboration and fun among its team of 30. Initiatives include Culture Connects, a programme of events that brings colleagues together across departments and locations and regular celebratory gatherings. Established in 2000, the firm operates from Ireland and the UK, offering hybrid and remote working options as well as opportunities to work abroad. In addition to a health and wellness allowance, employees get an annual flexible 'On Call Day' to deal with personal commitments and have access to a virtual GP and mental-health services. Volunteer days, donation drives and company-sponsored community initiatives give staff the chance to support good causes. A recognition programme celebrates outstanding contributions and dedication of This Dublin health sciences university (the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland University of Medicine and Health Science, to give it its full title) is to 'educate, nurture and discover for the benefit of human health', and its 1,035 staff believe it is a great place to work. Wellbeing is promoted in the everyday experience of work, starting with vice-chancellor and chief executive Professor Cathal Kelly and the senior management team welcoming new joiners to the big organisation. The leadership development programme focuses on building emotional intelligence and developing coaching skills, while the professional development planning process has removed performance ratings and now includes questions about work/life balance and what staff are most proud of in their work. An on-site gym, subsidised restaurants, and an in-house medical centre with discounted fees for staff are perks of the job. There is also support for further study and an active sports and social club. Survey respondents aged 55-plus returned an engagement score of 88 per cent, with female participants close behind on 86 per cent. There is also an impressive 93 per cent engagement score from disabled employees. This healthcare outsourcing specialist looks after its staff with regular check-ins, wellness weeks and access to mental-health support. The big Waterford-based organisation provides consulting, administrative and clinical support to healthcare organisations in Ireland and the US, where it works with some of North America's biggest hospitals. RelateCare offers its 506-strong Irish workforce flexible working arrangements, including remote and hybrid options, with frequent virtual and in-person sports and social events keeping them feeling connected. It gets a 96 per cent engagement score among ethnic minority employees who took part in our survey and a 95 per cent score among LGBTQIA+ respondents. Comprehensive training programmes from onboarding to leadership development, mentorship, and clear progression paths provide employees with resources and support to grow within the organisation. Employees who work outside standard business hours or on Sundays receive premium pay and those taking on multiple roles or acquiring additional skills are eligible for cross-skilling This Galway care provider wants its 140 staff to feel right at home. The medium-sized franchise business, which also covers Mayo and Roscommon, provides services including housekeeping, companionship, personal care and live-in care for the elderly and disabled adults. The in-house personal development programme ensures staff have the support and skills they need to do their job, including training on issues including Alzheimer's and dementia, medication management, mobility loss, cancer recovery and end of life care. The company promotes from within whenever possible and recognises those going the extra mile with Carer of the Month and Carer of the Year awards. Routine surveys ensure the voice of the workforce is heard, with the most recent leading to the introduction of weekly rather than monthly wages for some staff. Perks include a Christmas bonus, discounted fuel and a travel allowance for those going outside their designated area. The company registered an 85 per cent engagement score among LGBTQIA+ Staff share in the success of this employee-owned insurance business, which gives its 32-strong team share options at twice their annual salary. Part of the Aventum Group, the small Cavan-based company is an international specialty re/insurance managing general agent (MGA). Training and mentoring programmes, including support from an in-house performance coach, develop staff professionally. Employees are also invited to take part in Bear Cave, a Dragons' Den-style initiative where they can pitch innovative ideas to make a tangible difference to the company. Everyone is automatically opted in to the medical scheme and other perks include a fitness trainer, free language courses, counselling, two months' full paternity pay and six months for mums. Under the Peer-2-Peer recognition scheme, Applaud, colleagues can publicly recognise each other with nominated staff receiving rewards such as retail vouchers. With a 91 per cent overall engagement score and a 90 per cent score for wellbeing, employees clearly think Rokstone is a great place to The outcome is clear at this family-run diagnostics company in Annacotty, Co Limerick, with staff loving their work here. Employees taking part in our survey returned an overall engagement score of 89 per cent. In 2024, Serosep reduced the working day by 30 minutes to give its 103-strong team a better work/life balance. Founded in 1997 by Dermot and Noreen Scanlon, the medium-size business, which makes tests to diagnose conditions including gastroenteritis, respiratory infections and other infectious diseases, exports its products across five continents to more than 35 countries. Training programmes, workshops, courses and mentorship keep the team up to date with industry advances and developing professionally. The health and wellness programme and clubs ranging from sports and social to book and cinema keep wellbeing high, with employees returning a 90 per cent score. Employees enjoy their birthday off work, and other benefits include a pension scheme, serious illness cover, death in service cover, free counselling and access to a virtual This children's educational app creator has a work-from-anywhere policy that allows its 90 staff to choose the environment and schedule that suit their own personal story, whether that's working in its Dublin office, from home or a mixture of both. The medium-size company, which partners with global brands including LEGO Group, Pixar, Warner Bros and Nickelodeon, listens to employees and acts on feedback. This has led to refining career development paths and enhancing annual salary review processes, and considering new ways to improve work-life balance, with a four-day week now on the radar. Even during office hours it's not all work and no play, though, with staff sharing interests from music and books to food and games on internal social channels and planning nights out or virtual hangouts. Family healthcare, a pension plan, life assurance, income protection and a bike to work scheme are part of the script here. Our survey recorded engagement scores of 91 per cent and 90 per cent among LGBTQIA+ and female respondents Employee forums and easy access to the hands-on co-founders ensure the voice of the workforce is heard at this Dublin-based healthcare technology company whose AI powered speech technology is used in hospitals around the world. Established in 2012 by chief executive Jonathan Larbey and chief operating officer Mark Gilmartin, T-Pro's technology allows doctors to voice-enable their existing electronic patient records, reducing the administrative burden so they can spend more time with their patients. The small company employs 115 people globally, including a team of 45 in Ireland. International assignments, a leadership development programme, mentorship and upskilling courses keep staff motivated and contribute to attrition rates of just 2 per cent. T-Pro offers hybrid working, a health and wellbeing allowance, bonuses, social events and subsidised food. It gets an engagement score of 87 per cent among ethnic minority employees who took part in our There's plenty of appetite for work at this fast-growing primary school lunch provider based in Nenagh, Co Tipperary. Founded by Ray Nangle and Ger Killian in 2019, The Lunch Bag, which started off in one school, now provides hot meals to 100,000 children every day and has 750 employees. The team generally works around the school calendar, while hybrid working helps office staff with work/life balance. Reflecting the big company's diverse and inclusive culture, everyone is encouraged to be themselves, and it gets a 95 per cent engagement score among female staff and employees aged 55-plus who took part in our survey. There are plenty of opportunities for career progression, too, with many employees moving to new roles within the company. The production team enjoy free breakfast, lunch and a hot meal every day and the firm, which has plans for further expansion, offers a free local bus service for staff living in rural Employees at this fast-growing business software company can do their job where they feel they do it best – from home, from the office or a bit of both. Founded by Eoin Hinchy and Thomas Kinsella in 2018 and with headquarters in Dublin and Boston, the medium-size company has 105 employees and offers salaries that reflect individual impact along with start-up equity. It also provides an annual allowance for staff to invest in their development. The security automation specialist brings all of its 'Tinos' together for the annual Company Kick-Off, and the Fun Committee ensure staff enjoy time with colleagues away from work. There is a monthly allowance for home internet and mobile phone use, plus a yearly allowance for additional items. Staff get extra company-wide holidays in addition to 25 days' annual leave and private healthcare. It gets an engagement score of 96 per cent from female respondents and 94 per cent This Dublin-based travel company aims to 'create moments that make life richer' for its employees as well as customers. The medium-size firm allows its 97 staff to work from another country for up to 30 days a year and gives them paid wellbeing and seasonal shopping days. An annual wellbeing day and initiatives such as 'Power of 'How Are You'' and 'Talk-for-10' also focus on keeping morale high. Development programmes, interactive webinars and Power Hour sessions offer opportunities for staff to grow personally and professionally. The peer to-peer Thank You scheme rewards those nominated with e-cards worth €20, €50 or €100 and there are also annual recognition and long service awards. The package includes flexible bank holidays, the opportunity to buy up to 15 additional days' leave, a paid volunteering day and virtual GP services, plus discounts on TUI holidays and other travel Monthly office and workshop staff coffee mornings, team-building events and a calendar of activities build friendships and a strong sense of community among employees at this fire protection specialist in Mullingar, Co Westmeath. Writech designs, manufactures, installs and maintains fire protection and detection systems and has grown into one of the largest companies of its kind in Europe, operating in eight countries. It has a diverse workforce with 13 nationalities represented on the 167-strong team, while more than 20 per cent of management roles are held by women. Female employees who took part in our survey returned a 90 per cent score for engagement. Quarterly benchmarking on salary, bonuses, benefits, and working conditions informed by employee feedback, market data, and recruitment insights, ensure employees feel valued and fairly remunerated. Employees benefit from 24/7 access to the onsite gym, private medical insurance for them and their families, a pension scheme and support for further study and This Dublin digital marketing software company encourages its staff to be Xtreme. Founded by former professional rugby player Tommy Kearns, his brother-in-law Padraig Shanley and Kevin Collins in 2014, the medium-size business sells software for direct marketing to customers across digital channels including texts, email and mobile apps. Headquartered in Dublin with offices in London, New York and São Paulo, it counts Wowcher, LiveScore, Betsul and Bank of Ireland among its clients. Xtremepush offers its 160 employees flexible hybrid working and a friendly inclusive working environment. It scores 91 per cent for engagement among ethnic minority respondents and 87 per cent among female participants. Keep Driving Hard is the motto of the firm, which runs regular wellness activities and fitness challenges and gives staff days off for volunteering days. It provides healthcare and pension contributions and an employee assistance programme that includes confidential counselling and mental-health
