Businesses from Athlone were afforded the opportunity to meet buyers from all over the world as part of the Local Enterprise Showcase at Showcase 2023 which took place in the RDS recently.
There were over 100 Local Enterprise Office supported businesses from across the country present at the event with two in attendance from Athlone, namely Dominic O’Brien, a talented artist and illustrator and Fox & Bell Goldsmiths, synonymous with hand made and hand finished bespoke jewellery designs.
These local businesses were all exhibiting at the Local Enterprise Showcase, part of Showcase 2023, that saw over 4,000 buyers from retailers across the globe attend the three-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 three-day event.
The show, which marked its 47th edition this year, is one of Ireland’s largest and most important international trade fairs. Showcase is presented on behalf of Design & Crafts Council Ireland, with support from Enterprise Ireland in promoting the trade show internationally, and the Local Enterprise Offices nationwide.
The Athlone companies were selected by Local Enterprise Office Westmeath 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.
Christine Charlton, Head of Enterprise for Westmeath County Council believes this is an opportunity like no other for up-and-coming craft and design clients looking to make that break through.
“To be exposed to this many high-quality buyers in one place is an incredible opportunity for any business starting out. If things go well at this event, a business could fill their book for the year and may well establish a partnership that could extend longer than that and help them grow. While that won’t happen for every business, just to be here, see other clients, get new ideas and develop their skills in marketing and sales will stand by them going forward," Ms Charlton stated.
“Showcase is now in its 48th year and we were delighted to welcome buyers from Ireland and all over the world who play a vital role in creating a stage for Irish craft and design. This year 380+ exhibitors joined us to highlight and grow their businesses. I want to thank the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Enterprise Ireland, Local Enterprise Office, and of course the RDS for supporting such an important event in the Irish Design and Craft calendar," Rosemary Steen, CEO of Design and Crafts Council Ireland, said.
For more information on Local Enterprise Showcase 2023 and supports available to those operating in the design and crafts sector, log on to www.LocalEnterprise.ie and for more information on Showcase 2023, log on to www.ShowcaseIreland.com
