Showcase Ireland 2025: Celebrating 50 Years of Irish Craft and Design
Showcase 2025, celebrating 50 years of Irish craft and design, returns to the RDS Dublin from Jan 19-21.
Ireland’s premier trade show, Showcase – Ireland’s Creative Expo®, returns to the RDS Dublin from Sunday, 19th January to Tuesday, 21st January 2025, marking an impressive 50 years since its inception. Founded in 1975 by the Design & Crafts Council Ireland, Showcase has grown into one of the largest international trade shows, attracting over 3,500 visitors from more than 20 countries. This year, over 400 exhibitors will showcase their innovative collections, including almost 90 first-time brands and returning favourites, in celebration of half a century of supporting Irish design and craftsmanship.
Showcase is an important platform for designers, manufacturers, and craft makers, providing them with invaluable exposure to both domestic and international buyers. The event has proven to be a significant revenue generator for Ireland’s craft sector, which employs over 59,000 people, particularly in regional areas.
The event’s success is reflected in the impressive growth figures, with purchasing plans from last year’s attendees surpassing €20.5 million and orders continuing to rise at an average rate of 18% year-on-year.
In addition to its dynamic exhibition, Showcase 2025 will feature a series of high-profile speakers, including Sara Davies, Dragons’ Den panellist, and consumer behaviourist Ken Hughes. Attendees will gain insights from industry experts and have the opportunity to engage in panel discussions, adding further value to this essential event.
Minister Emer Higgins, T.D., will open the event, marking its milestone anniversary. "Showcase continues to play a pivotal role in connecting exceptional Irish talent with global markets," she said. "The retail sector is a cornerstone of our economy, and Showcase remains a vital platform for Irish designers and makers."
With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and sector development, Showcase 2025 is more than just a trade show—it’s a celebration of Ireland’s creative spirit and its growing influence on the global stage.
