Tánaiste Leo Varadkar and Actor and Writer Amy Huberman have launched a new campaign to help boost the Irish craft industry.
The Made Local campaign, developed by the Design & Crafts Council Ireland, is a nationwide initiative to boost sales and drive revenue for both makers and retailers.
DCCI has over 3,000 registered client enterprises and engages with over 150 retailers across the country who specialise in authentic Irish products.
Recent research conducted by DCCI indicated that 9 in 10 consumers feel an affinity to Irish craft and design.
DCCI’s ambition is that the Made Local campaign will remind consumers holidaying in Ireland this year of the products available from Irish makers and designers across the country.
Breege O'Donoghue, Chair of DCCI, said there is clear demand for lrish products.
"As the economy begins to re-open, we’re calling on consumers to shop local and consider the breadth of Irish-crafted, high-quality products available here. This will, in turn, help us re-vitalise our wonderful craft industry," she said.
Consumers will see the newly designed Made Local symbol in participating retailers when shopping for gifts and keepsakes during their holidays.
This will be featured on Irish-made craft and design in these shops across the country from today.
The research also reveals that 43% of Irish consumers will continue to shop online even as restrictions ease.
Speaking at the launch, Tánaiste and Minister for Trade, Enterprise and Employment, Leo Varadkar, said Ireland is known for its talented designers and craftspeople.
"These makers and the retailers make a significant contribution to the Irish economy and provide sustainable employment. The Government's July Jobs Stimulus will help businesses to reopen and rehire or retain staff, through an enhanced Restart Grant and an extension to the wage subsidy scheme. We can all play our part; by backing the Made Local campaign, we can help our vibrant Irish design and craft sector to return to prosperity and growth," he said.
Actor and Author Amy Huberman has called on people to support the industry and to shop local.
"Following a very difficult few months due to Covid-19, it is important to make a conscious effort to help local craft businesses in Ireland. Our country is full of some of the most talented designers and craftspeople in the world and we are so lucky to have such beautiful produce right here on this island. We would like to encourage consumers to think before they shop and give our local makers a chance to thrive over the coming months," she said.
The Made Local campaign will run throughout the summer with 100 retailers involved in the campaign, supporting the work of DCCI’s 3,000 registered clients.
