Peter Burke TD, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment officially opened Showcase today at Dublin’s RDS and highlighted how important trade shows such as Showcase are to the design and crafts sector. This year is the 50th year of the establishment of Showcase, one of Ireland’s largest international trade shows that offers manufacturers, designers and craft makers the opportunity to exhibit their new collections.
Over the course of the three-day event, Showcase 2025 is expected to welcome almost 400 exhibitors and more than 4,500 buyers from Ireland and overseas. Upwards of €25 million in sales orders is expected to be transacted over the three days show, with even more anticipated to be generated throughout the year following the event.
The annual show is a key destination for both domestic and international buyers and a milestone event in the calendars of exhibitors at the show. Almost 400 exhibitors will show their latest collections across four product categories – home and gift, wellbeing, fashion, and jewellery. Sustainability, responsible retail, independent retailers, and sector development continue to be significant pillars of our annual event.
Showcase was established in 1976 by Design & Crafts Council Ireland and began life as the National Crafts Fair. Over the past 50 years, it has grown from a show for domestic buyers alone to a show for buyers from around 30 countries worldwide. This year, Showcase expects to welcome over 4,500 visitors, including many of whom are returning visitors to the event which has a loyal following.
Speaking at the official opening of the event today were Mary Palmer, Chair of Showcase Ireland; Peter Hynes, Chair of Design & Crafts Council Ireland; Michael Carey, Chair, Enterprise Ireland and Tom Rooney, Head of Craft & Design, Local Enterprise Office (LEO).
Peter Burke TD, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, said: “I’m delighted to open Showcase 2025, marking the 50th year of this incredible event. Over the past five decades, Showcase has become a cornerstone of Ireland’s craft and design sector, offering a vital platform for our makers to showcase their exceptional talents. This milestone celebrates the ingenuity and craftsmanship that Ireland is known for, and it is fantastic to see such a diverse international audience gathered here today. Showcase provides invaluable opportunities to elevate Ireland’s reputation in the global creative industries and with a global market. Many of the talented craftspeople exhibiting here today are based in rural communities, and my department remains committed to supporting the growth of this sector in these areas across Ireland and further afield. Craft plays a vital role in Ireland’s economy and cultural identity, and I look forward to seeing what the next 50 years will bring for Irish makers.”
Showcase is promoted internationally by Enterprise Ireland through its network of overseas offices. Speaking ahead of the opening event, Karen Conroy, Senior Development Adviser, Consumer and International Education at Enterprise Ireland said: "Showcase 2025 marks a key moment as we celebrate 50 years of this iconic event, which continues to serve as a powerful platform for Irish creators to connect with international buyers and expand their global reach. Enterprise Ireland is proud to support this dynamic sector, which saw impressive growth in 2024. With almost 100 international buyers from key markets such as the USA, UK, Germany, France, the Middle East and beyond, Showcase 2025 reaffirms Ireland’s standing as a global leader in design and craft innovation. We look forward to further supporting our clients as they continue to make their mark in international markets."
Showcase is becoming even more important for Ireland’s micro enterprises and new start-ups, according to Tom Rooney, Head of Craft and Design, Local Enterprise Office who said: “As we celebrate 50 years of Showcase, it is a proud moment for Ireland's craft and design community. Local Enterprise Offices continue to play a crucial role in supporting the growth and development of micro-enterprises and start-ups. The innovative spirit and creativity of Irish makers are on full display at this year’s event, providing a unique opportunity for small businesses to connect with international buyers and expand their networks. For many small businesses, meeting just one key buyer at this event can be the turning point, helping to secure orders for the year ahead. We’ve worked closely with our clients to ensure they make the most of this incredible opportunity.”
Showcase was founded in 1976 by Design & Crafts Council Ireland (DCCI) and is delivered with support from Enterprise Ireland and the Local Enterprise Offices. Showcase 2025 runs until Tuesday 21st January and is open to trade attendees only.
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