Louise Moran of Flourish Emporium at Showcase 2023. Photos: Cork County Council

Cork businesses meet thousands of buyers

A host of business from Cork had the opportunity to meet buyers from all over the world recently.

It was part of the Local Enterprise Showcase at Showcase 2023 in the RDS Dublin where there were over 100 Local Enterprise Office supported businesses from across the country present at the event with 7 in attendance from the county.

Louise Moran of Flourish Emporium, Hanna Backmo of Hanna’s Bees, Mary O’ Donnell of Modart Studios, Paul Murphy of Mindful Maker, Suzette Demicoli of the Farrow Collection, Jason Hamilton-Foott of the Tranquil Candle Company and Patrick Murphy of CK53, were all exhibiting at the showcase.

It saw over 4,000 buyers from retailers across the globe attend the 3 day event in Dublin looking to secure new sales and partners for the year ahead. Upwards of €20 million in business was expected to have been transacted across the 3 day event.

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment Dara Calleary TD officially opened Showcase 2023.

He said: “It’s great to be here and see some of the incredible products on display. Ireland is globally renowned for its craft and design, and Showcase is the international launchpad for so many Irish makers to achieve this recognition.

“Craft plays an integral part in Ireland’s economy, and I wish each maker the best of luck during Showcase.”

The companies were selected by Local Enterprise Offices in Cork to take part in this year’s Local Enterprise Showcase at Showcase 2023. They have been working closely with them in recent months to ensure they are in the best possible position to maximise their appearance at the event including sales technique, marketing materials and stand production.

Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr Danny Collins said: “The Local Enterprise Offices in South Cork and Cork North and West are delighted to present local businesses with this wonderful opportunity to meet new buyers and explore new markets.

The show so far has proven very fruitful for Cork businesses, and we are extremely proud of all the hard work each exhibitor has put into their displays and brand awareness.”