On 21st January 2022, the Government of Ireland announced the easing of Covid-19 restrictions across Ireland.
 

“Our small craft and design businesses have suffered as much as any business during the pandemic.  With the lifting of restrictions it’s significant boost to them all both in respect of getting back to normal but also the additional opportunities it provides through the Local Enterprise Showcase.  Hopefully we will see more buyers attending to support our up and coming craft and design businesses.  And if there is anything we have seen in the past 22 months it’s that our small businesses have future proofed themselves and become more resilient so buyers can be guaranteed not only the best in craft and design but the some of the best small companies this country has to offer” - Breda Fox, Head of Craft & Design, Local Enterprise Offices

The lifting of the majority of restrictions is great news for visitors to Showcase which has seen a massive increase in pre-registration as national and international buyers look forward to Ireland's first live retail gift, home, fashion and jewellery trade fair in almost two years. 

"With restrictions lifting and trade shows returning, we are looking to the future and are very excited to present the Jack Murphy Autumn Winter 2022 collection" Sarah Murphy, Head of Sales & Marketing, Jack Murphy, Stand E32

 

The vast majority of restrictions that had been in place have now been lifted, Irish society has reopened and businesses are returning to normal.

“Hoping that the government’s loosening of restrictions gives people the confidence to attend Showcase Ireland this year - both vendors and buyers. Stats are starting to move in a positive direction” - Sarah Plovanich, Senior Buyer, Hammacher & Schlemmer

 

There are, at the time of writing, no limits or restrictions on indoor events such as Showcase in Dublin's RDS.

“It’s personally and professionally  uplifting to be returning to Dublin to attend Showcase Ireland. Our spirits are lifted knowing we’ll be able to resume working face-to-face with the most talented Irish makers in the  inspirational city of Dublin. Out of our top ten performing brands in 2021, four were Irish brands that we discovered at Showcase Ireland. Besides financial gain, these brands have helped us develop a loyal customer base that return season after season to purchase Irish-made goods. Showcase is a well curated and creative trade show, outstanding for sourcing unique, quality Irish textiles for export. It is essential to build on our existing relationships and seek out new talent. We’re eager to see and touch merchandise and to say a sincere thank you for the support we've had from Irish makers - Doris Barsauskas, Proprietor, MacKimmie Co.

 

This is great news for visitors to Showcase 2022 and we look forward to welcoming you to the show in person to discover new brands and products, meet with your existing suppliers, engage in our events program and enjoy all that Dublin (recently declared 7th best city in the world to visit in 2022 by Lonely Planet) has to offer. 

“We are so looking forward to being back at Showcase 2022 in the RDS, Dublin next month. After over two years it will be a pleasure to meet old and new clients alike’’  - Charlie and Maria Hoysted, Shannonbridge Pottery, Stand D68.

 

Showcase Ireland at The RDS is a safe event adhering to the Irish Exhibition Organisers Association industry charter mark. This verifies that our show meets the Government and public health guidance on Covid-19 and that we have all the required health and safety processes in place to open safely at the end of February 2022.

“With the COVID restrictions lifted Tipperary Crystal feel that Showcase visitor numbers will be maximised and it validates our decision to exhibit at Showcase” - Robbie Scanlan, MD, Tipperary Crystal, Stand D62/ D84. 

For the most up-to-date information on Covid-19 rules and international travel to Ireland please visit www.gov.ie.

Features images: Clare O'Connor and The Suss Edit