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Brand name?
WASI Seaweed Skincare
Where are you based?
Bantry, Co. Cork.
Tell us about your business and products?
WASI started out with two dozen jars of seaweed pesto being created for my local health food store. Over time it evolved into what it is today - a natural healing seaweed skincare range. Seaweed is a miracle ingredient that is packed full of nutrients which promote collagen production, promote skin regeneration and increase skin elasticity. Seaweed products are particularly suitable for sensitive skin and are made ‘water-free’ which greatly reduces their environmental impact. WASI Seaweed Skincare boasts a low impact production process, 95% sustainable and recyclable packaging and longer shelf life products that have less dilution of active ingredients and that are suitable for sensitive skin.
Tell us about yourself as a founder
The WASI Seaweed Skincare range was born from my passion for natural remedies which led to me studying complementary medicine. I travelled the world honing these skills for many years. After working in the corporate world, I felt a calling to leave my office and return to nature and the sea and began a business based on hand-harvesting seaweed which generations of women on the Atlantic coast of Cork had been doing for centuries.
Where do you get your inspiration?
Traditionally my great-grandmother, grandmother and mother had used seaweed to nourish their families, animals and land - recognising its nutritional value. Sustainable, nourishing and with natural healing properties, seaweed is a fantastic ingredient for natural skincare products. Without a doubt it is previous generations’ respect for seaweed that has led me down this path.
What are your brand values?
Sustainability is at the core of our brand, from responsibly sourcing ingredients to using eco-friendly packaging. I prioritise practices that respect the environment and reduce waste, aiming to create products that benefit both customers and the planet. Sustainability is at the very forefront of what we do. Going into this business, so many of my mentors were pushing me towards plastic packaging to reduce costs and shipping weights. I don't think I'd still be in business if I'd listened to them as my heart would not have been in it. The quality and purity of our ingredients is also extremely important to what we do. I carefully select natural, high-quality ingredients, ensuring that each formulation is pure, effective and beneficial for the skin
What do you like most about what you do?
I love the freedom that having my own business allows me though saying that I've never worked so hard in my life and for such long hours! I am very proud of what I have created while touching our planet gently and I daydream that one day my two girls will be excited to be part of it too.
Is this your first time exhibiting at Showcase Ireland?
This will be my second time exhibiting at Showcase.
What advice do you have for first time exhibitors at the show?
Last year was my very first Showcase and I went there with my market head on. Less is definitely more at Showcase. Buyers have very limited time to visit the stands and want all the information to hand. Also, if you don't make a lot of sales on the day don't get disheartened. I got a lot of follow-up enquiries and sales from buyers that had passed quickly and had taken a photo or a business card.
Where are your products currently stocked?
The brand is stocked in some of the most beautiful stores across Ireland including Meadows and Byrne, Irish Design Shop and All Wrapped Up.
What's new for Showcase 2025?
We have just finished developing our body scrub so that will be pride of place for Showcase 2025.
Visit WASI Seaweed Skincare at Stand L23 in the in Local Enterprise Office Showcase.
