Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation Dara Calleary has launched Design & Crafts Council Ireland's Made Local, Made to Last campaign, which highlights the quality and value of Irish-designed and craft-made products.
The campaign, now in its third year and fronted by ambassador and performer Tolü Makay, aims to remind consumers that buying locally produced, well-crafted products is "more meaningful" ahead of the Christmas season.
“Made Local celebrates the skill and originality of local craft makers and the retail outlets that support them up and down the country. This year, we have an important message for consumers that recognises the cost of living challenges we face," said Rosemary Steen, CEO of DCCI.
"We focus on the quality and sustainability of Irish design and craft products. We ask consumers to take time to think about the long term value of products they buy, particularly in ‘cost per use’ or ‘cost per wear’ terms.
"We are asking consumers to be mindful in their purchasing decisions. ‘Made Local’ products in textiles, fashion, ceramics, jewellery, or any of the many other craft disciplines, deliver excellent value for money. They are truly ‘Made to Last’ and will provide years of enjoyment and pleasure for buyers.”
In Association with
Made Local, Made to Last kicks off with an exhibition of the work of Irish designers and craft makers at Hen's Teeth venue and gallery in Dublin 8 that will run on Wednesday and Thursday (12-13 October) from 10am to 5pm. Entry is free.
A programme of local campaign launches will then take place nationwide over the coming weeks to highlight the value and contribution of the design and craft sector at local level.
Some 1,355 makers and 350 retail outlets for Irish craft and design, all of whom are listed at madelocal.ie will participate in the campaign.
“I’m delighted to launch the Made Local, Made to Last Campaign today. Craftspeople and designers in Ireland make a significant contribution, not only to their local communities but to the wider national economy, bringing innovation and dynamism to the Irish enterprise sector," said Minister Calleary.
"Events like the one today are an important opportunity to celebrate the designers and makers whose skill and originality is known the world over.
"As we look to support enterprises in Ireland to grow their market reach, it is great to see so many have embraced digital with makers investing in their online presence and growing demand for Irish design and craft products - not just in Ireland but across the globe.
"In the months ahead I encourage everyone to take the opportunity to find out what their local makers have to offer and consider supporting Made Local.”
Tolü Makay added: "I am proud to be the ambassador for Made Local 2022. As an artist and songwriter, I understand the dedication and passion that craftspeople have for their work.
"I support local Irish makers where I can and I’m looking forward to discovering more brilliant designers and crafts people through the Made Local, Made to Last campaign.”
It estimated that the craft and design sector comprises 18,000 enterprises employing 54,000 workers and generates €54bn in turnover.
Approximately 96% of the makers involved last year cited Made Local as a positive campaign for their business, and 87% of retailers commented that it had a positive impact on their sales.
Photo: Musician Tolü Makay wearing Dress by Claire Garvey, Head scarf by Jennifer Rothwell and Neck piece by Emer Roberts at the launch of Made Local 2022 from Design & Crafts Council Ireland at Hen’s Teeth, Dublin 8. (Pic: Leon Farrell/Photocall Ireland)
