Ballymena’s Connor Martin of The JAQ Group named Young Business Leader of the Year 2025

Connor Martin, founder and managing director of local company, The JAQ Group has been awarded the accolade of Young Business Leader of the Year 2025 at the recent Irish News Workplace and Employment Awards.

Connor Martin, founder and managing director of local success story The JAQ Group, has been awarded Young Business Leader of the Year 2025, sponsored by Queen’s University, at the prestigious Irish News Workplace and Employment Awards held recently in Belfast.

With a workforce of over 230 and ambitious plans for expansion, The JAQ Group is a fast-growing e-commerce business producing popular perfume and skincare lines including The Essence Vault, Liquid London, and Thomson Carter.

Headquartered in Randalstown, the company has submitted proposals for a new, purpose-built facility just outside Ballymena – a move set to bring 300 new jobs and a significant £11 million investment to the local economy.

The annual Irish News awards celebrate the best places to work across Ireland, attracting hundreds of entries and culminating in a high-profile ceremony attended by more than 500 guests.

“A Journey from Warehouse to Global Success”

Judges recognised Connor Martin’s exceptional leadership, innovation and determination to grow a small, local business into a multimillion-pound international enterprise in just five years.

“I am honoured to receive the award of Young Business Leader of the Year,” said Connor.

“I was delighted to have been shortlisted amongst my peers in the category and to win was fantastic. I’ve been on quite a journey since starting The JAQ Group and would like to take this opportunity to thank all of my team for their enthusiasm and support in helping me build the business into the success it is today.”

Connor launched The JAQ Group in 2019, selling vegan-friendly perfumes under The Essence Vault, offering long-lasting fragrances inspired by high street favourites at accessible prices.

What began with hand-packing orders in a small warehouse has grown into a business with over 2.5 million customers and a product line that now includes eau de parfums, fragrance oils, diffusers, candles, and skincare.

The Essence Vault has become a £100 million brand, and its success paved the way for further innovation. Thomson Carter recorded £5 million growth within 16 months, and Liquid London reached £2 million within seven months, going on to be crowned TikTok’s Beauty Brand of the Year.

The JAQ Group now includes a dedicated third-party logistics division, JAQ Fulfilment, and oversees every stage of production from development to delivery, ensuring top-tier quality across all operations.

A Vision for Local Impact

As a native of Ballymena and alumnus of St. Louis Grammar School, Connor remains committed to giving back. He has invested in improving the school’s science facilities and supports numerous community initiatives. These include sponsorship of inclusive sports teams such as Antrim All Stars for All GAA, FC Antrim, and Antrim Rovers Football Club.

“I am passionate about creating a workplace where people want to be and have the opportunity to progress in their careers and develop new skills,” he said. “As a native of Ballymena, I am keen to bring further investment and jobs to the area.”

Plans for a new commercial hub just outside Ballymena – to include manufacturing, office and storage space – reflect that commitment. The proposed expansion is expected to be the company’s principal site and will complement continued operations in Randalstown.

Recognition of Entrepreneurial Excellence

With annual turnover now exceeding £50 million and staff numbers rising from 63 to 230 in just a few years, Connor Martin’s recognition as Young Business Leader of the Year is a testament to his entrepreneurial flair, strategic vision, and ability to lead a thriving team.

Under his guidance, The JAQ Group is not only setting the benchmark for product innovation and business growth in Northern Ireland, but also showing how socially conscious leadership can help revitalise local communities.