Bizstartup.ie - NewsCraft start-ups meet international buyers at showcase

Over 35 craftspeople and designers from around the country were supported by their local County and City Enterprise Board (CEB), as many of them unveiled their first or new collection to international markets for the first time.

Three Enterprise Board-supported craftspeople also won awards at the expo, including Cathy Prendergast from Inti Leathers in Dundalk, who was supported by Louth County Enterprise Board (Creative Island Award); Eoin Turner from Blackpool in Cork City, who was supported by Cork City Enterprise Board (Highly Commended, New Product Awards); and John Ryan from O’Riain Pottery in Sligo, who was supported by Sligo County Enterprise Board (Highly Commended, New Product Awards).

“We supported existing and up-and-coming craftspeople in a very practical way, including subsidising the cost of their exhibition stands and providing marketing literature to help attract the attention of international buyers. Based on previous years, we would expect the majority of designer makers to have orders placed with them, for export. In this way, our craft sector is leading the way to recovery, identifying new international markets for their Irish-made creations,” said Christine Charlton from the CEBs.                

The four-day event took place from 24 to 27 January. The CEBs also sponsored the seminar programme for the 450 exhibitors at Showcase, which included merchandising tips for craftspeople, top trends for 2010 and advice around selling online.

Pictured: Rosaleen Kelly of The Pure Soap Company, based in Ramstown, Co Wexford, which featured at Showcase 2010