Small Cork businesses get global showcase

Cork city and county’s Local Enterprise Offices (LEO) will support 15 small companies at this month’s International showcase for Irish craft and design businesses.

The showcase, taking place at the RDS in Dublin between January 18 and 20, is one of Ireland’s largest international trade shows.

Now running for more than 50 years, the three-day event offers manufacturers, designers, and craft makers the opportunity to exhibit their collections to 3,000 buyers visiting from Ireland and overseas, generating more than €25.6m in sales.

The event is presented on behalf of the Design and Crafts Council Ireland, with support from LEOs and Enterprise Ireland, who promote the trade show internationally.

More than 400 Irish brands exhibit at the fair annually, including both established and emerging Irish businesses.

Among those representing Cork’s LEOs at this year’s showcase is Claire O’Sullivan, founder of Wasi Seaweed, who has been shortlisted as one of three finalists under the category of sustainability champion for the Business of Craft Awards. Based in Bantry, Ms O’Sullivan creates a range of skincare products including body oils, soaps, and bath salts using hand-harvested Irish seaweed.

Other Cork exhibitors include Dr K Soap Company, Saw Framed, Inchydoney Candles, Saucy Pups, Studio Canty, Lee River Leather, Blue Shoe Gallery, Hanna’s Bees, Gosling Gifts and Games, and Wave and Cave Clothing.

More than 30 Irish LEOs are dedicated to supporting scaling companies with start your own business programmes, mentoring, sales, pricing, and advice on preparing for markets, scaling, and sustainability.

A spokesperson for Cork City Council said the annual event is a fantastic opportunity for LEO clients, both startups and established small businesses, to create a foothold in the market both in Ireland and internationally.

“Representing the Local Enterprise Offices from throughout the Cork region are some exceptional entrepreneurs bringing innovative products and creative talent to an international audience,” the spokesperson said.