The Irish Fashion Group host first trade show for buyers in Ireland, Europe and beyond.
A total of 19 Irish fashion manufacturers have come together to form the Irish Fashion Group. To fill the gap caused by the collapse of the planned Futura Fashion Fair, the Irish Goods Council is sponsoring the new body's first trade showing held in Jury's Hotel, Dublin.
Models at the fashion show wear Autumn Winter 79 styles. It is hoped this outerwear will boost the Irish made share of the home market which fell to just 40% in 1978. This means imports accounted for 60% of the total Irish market in women’s outwear.
Leading fashion manufacturer Jimmy Hourihan says that Irish fashion is available to buy in shops at home. Manufacturers are working together and exports are doing well. They are doing better with exports than on the home market. The organisers of the show note that even a growth of 3% in their share of the home market would mean jobs for 250 people.
The four-day trade show is opened by the Minister of State at the Department of Industry, Commerce and Energy Ray Burke.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 23 April 1979. The reporter is Cathal MacCoille.
