The Knitwear Project exhibit
Showcase offers buyers and journalists the opportunity to meet with over 450 Irish companies from designers, crafts people, manufacturers and leading Irish brands. It is anticipated that 5,000 retail buyers will attend with up to 1,000 international buyers travelling from 26 countries from Europe, USA, Canada, Japan and China. Buyers attend Showcase to source creative, innovative and unique products.
Showcase is a platform for Irish companies to meet with international buyers and journalists across global markets. Enterprise Ireland’s network of overseas offices promotes Showcase to international buyers. Enterprise Ireland is looking forward to welcoming all international buyers looking to source new and exciting Irish product.
According to Stephen Hughes, Consumer Retail Manager, Enterprise Ireland: "Showcase is a valuable route to international markets for Irish companies in the design and craft sectors, who have the ambition and capability to win export contracts. The calibre of international buyers attracted to Showcase by Enterprise Ireland is truly impressive and testament to the quality and strong design offer that Irish companies in the consumer craft sector have for international buyers. As always, we look forward to welcoming first-time international buyers to Showcase as well as to extending a warm welcome back to the many key international buyers who return year after year. The ambition is to showcase what is new and innovative in Irish design, craft and craftsmanship and, ultimately, to win export orders."
Showcase 2016 will see the introduction of The Knitwear Project, an exciting new presentation of innovative knitwear created by emerging and leading Irish designers and manufacturers. A panel of 3 fashion experts – Deirdre McQuillan, Angela O’Kelly and Catherine Condell - have been appointed to guide and curate this project, supported by the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland and Enterprise Ireland.
In the rest of the show, specialist curators Alanna Gallagher (Home & Gift) and Natasha Sherling (Jewellery) have also been brought on board this year to help make viewing the best products easier for the discerning visitor. They will also select products for the Best Product Awards at the show.
Creative Island remains at the heart of Showcase, presenting authentic Irish craft products designed and made in Ireland and featuring over 90 commercial designer-makers who were chosen by an independent jury for their creativity, innovation and craftsmanship.
Showcase also offers visitors an extensive retail seminar programme over the four days of the show which will feature top international industry speakers delivering thought provoking presentations, providing retailers with expertise, research and advice.
Showcase 2016 runs from Sunday 24th to Wednesday 27th January at RDS Dublin and is for trade attendance only. For further details on the event and to register to attend, please visit: www.showcaseireland.com.
