Kilkenny makers take part in DCCI Made Local 2025

Makers from Kilkenny are taking part in the Design & Crafts Council Ireland Made Local campaign, which celebrates the exceptional talent, skill, and creativity of Ireland’s designers and makers.

The Made Local campaign shines a spotlight on the retailers proudly stocking Irish craft and reminds shoppers that every purchase is more than just a gift, it’s an investment in local talent, traditional skills and the communities that make Ireland unique.

READ MORE KILKENNY VIEWS AND OPINION HERE

Design & Crafts Council Ireland, CEO, Mary Blanchfield, commented:
“The Made Local campaign continues to highlight the strength, creativity, and commitment of Ireland’s design and craft sector. Irish-made products embody authenticity, sustainability, and the skill of makers whose work is rooted in both tradition and innovation.

“I’m delighted that this campaign not only celebrates our designers and craftspeople but also makes a real difference for their businesses with 87% of retailers reporting a positive impact on sales when displaying the Made Local point of sale in their stores. Our consumer research has shown that the more people know about Made Local, the more inclined they are to look for locally made products – please spread the Made Local word!”

Christmas is an important time of year for Ireland’s design and craft sector both for the makers and retailers, and this year DCCI is highlighting the real difference consumers can make by buying products made locally. Almost 1,500 DCCI designers and makers and over 350 retailers across Ireland take part in Made Local each year. Research, carried out by Amárach on behalf of DCCI, shows that supporting local businesses is the number one factor influencing the decision to purchase Made Local products (67%), while Christmas remains the key occasion when Irish adults are most likely to buy Irish craft items (52%).

For details of participating makers visit DCCI’s online directory at www.madelocal.ie.