Catriona Duffy, business advisor, LEO Westmeath with Siobhán Gibbons, of Milltownpass firm Bambrew.

Two new Westmeath firms in LEO section of Showcase

Image 1 of 2
Catriona Duffy, Business Advisor, LEO Westmeath with Siobhán Gibbons, of Milltownpass firm Bambrew.

Image 2 of 2
It’s coming up to a busy time for James O’Leary of IPI Teoranta which produces living shamrock gifts.

Published: Wed 7 Feb 2024, 11:29 AM

Last updated: Wed 7 Feb 2024, 11:53 AM

There was a green theme to the Westmeath representation at the Local Enterprise Showcase at Showcase 2024 at the RDS in Dublin.

Two Local Enterprise Office (LEO) supported businesses from Westmeath were among the 100 taking part: Bambrew from Milltownpass and IPI Teoranta from Athlone.

Bambrew’s green credentials come from its focus on alternatives to single-use plastics, while IPI Teoranta produces the ultimate green Irish product – shamrock.

The firms taking part in the three-day Local Enterprise Showcase had the opportunity to meet some of the 4,000-plus buyers from retailers across the globe looking to secure new sales and partners for the year ahead.

Bambrew say they are committed to promoting sustainable living and providing fun, ecofriendly products and alternatives to single use plastics. An example of their wares is a collection of stainless steel reusable cups embellished with original Irish designs created by Siobhán from Bambrew.

Siobhan said she wants “sustainable products to be available to everyone” and feels that “small steps are better than none”.

It’s coming close to the busiest time of the year for IPI Teoranta, who produce ready-to-wear living shamrock for national and international St Patrick’s Day events. They were delighted with Local Enterprise Showcase and the opportunity to interact with potential buyers from abroad interested in using the shamrock as a promotional product.

The Westmeath companies were selected by LEO Westmeath, who then worked with both firms on sales technique, marketing materials and stand production to ensure they were in the best position to maximise their time at the event.

Christine Charlton, head of Enterprise for Westmeath County Council, said the event is a fantastic opportunity for up-and-coming craft and design clients looking to make a breakthrough. “To have the opportunity to meet so many high quality buyers in one place is incredible for any business starting out.

"If all goes well at the event, a business could fill their order book for the year and establish a partnership that could help them grow. Just to be here, sharing ideas with other businesses, expanding their sales and marketing skills will benefit them.”

Heather Humphreys, TD, Minister for Social Protection and for Rural and Community Development, officially opened Showcase, highlighting how important trade shows such as it are to the design and crafts sector.

One of the country’s largest international trade fairs, Showcase 2024 welcomed 400 exhibitors and more than 4,000 buyers. As well as the €25 million in sales orders expected over the three days, more were anticipated to be generated throughout the year due to the event.

“Ireland is globally renowned for its craft and design and Showcase is the international launchpad for so many Irish makers to achieve this recognition,” Minister Humphreys said.