Clem Jacob wins major industry award for Sustainability

Clem Jacob Hire has won a major industry award for sustainability. 

The Waterford company won the Sustainability Award at the 2026 International Awards for Powered Access (IAPAs), held in Istanbul, Turkey, on Thursday October 15.

The accolade recognises the company's ongoing commitment to reducing its environmental impact across both its equipment rental and training operations, placing the Waterford firm among the industry's leading innovators in sustainable practice.

Since it's establishment in 2006, Clem Jacob Hire has grown from a local operation into one of the South East's best-known providers of plant and machinery hire, access equipment, training services and event support.

The award is the latest milestone for the family-owned business as it marks two decades in business.

A key factor in securing the international honour was the company's investment in renewable energy and environmentally friendly technologies. Among its most significant projects is the development of a fully off-grid training centre powered by solar energy and battery storage systems.

The company has also expanded its fleet of electric-powered access equipment and battery-operated generators, providing customers with greener alternatives to traditional diesel-powered machinery.

Its efforts attracted international attention, with Clem Jacob Hire shortlisted alongside three major global industry names - Dingli, Haulotte and Johnson Arabia - before ultimately being announced as the winner.

The success represents a major achievement for the Waterford company, highlighting how a regional Irish business can compete on the world stage while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability and innovation.

Beyond its commercial operations, Clem Jacob Hire has also established a reputation for its support of community events throughout Waterford and the South East.

The company has been a long-standing supporter of the Spraoi International Street Arts Festival, providing sponsorship, equipment and technical assistance for the festival's flagship Spraoi Parade, one of the largest annual events in the region.

It has also lent its support to the Waterford Viking Marathon, further strengthening its ties with the local community and helping to deliver major events across the city.

Based at Six Cross Roads Business Park, the award-winning business continues to expand its sustainable practices while remaining firmly rooted in Waterford.

The international recognition in Istanbul serves as a fitting tribute to the company's achievements over the past 20 years and provides another landmark moment in what has been a significant year for the locally-owned enterprise.