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#MADELOCAL campaign reminds people that everyone can play their part to help Irish design and craft sector return to growth

The Design and Crafts Council Ireland launched its #MADELOCAL campaign this summer to showcase the work of Irish designers and makers, and deliver a much-needed boost to a sector that was so negatively affected by Covid-19.

The campaign was launched by An Tánaiste and Minister for Trade, Enterprise and Employment, Leo Varadkar, TD and actor and writer Amy Huberman, as well as DCCI Chair Breege O’Donoghue. The #MADELOCAL campaign, developed by DCCI, is a nationwide initiative to boost sales and drive revenue for both makers and retailers.

The Irish craft and design industry is a significant contributor to regional economies. DCCI has over 3,000 registered client enterprises and engages with over 150 retailers across the country who specialise in authentic Irish products.

Consumer Affinity

Recent research conducted by Amárach Consulting for DCCI has indicated that nine in 10 consumers feel an affinity to Irish craft and design. DCCI’s ambition is that the #MADELOCAL campaign will remind consumers taking staycations this year of the high-quality, unique products available from Irish makers and designers across the country.

Consumers see the newly designed #MADELOCAL symbol in participating retailers when shopping for gifts and keepsakes during their holidays. The symbol is featured on Irish-made craft and design in shops across the country. The research also reveals that 43% of Irish consumers will continue to shop online, even as restrictions ease. DCCI is calling on consumers to choose these local businesses when shopping online for gifts, homewares or fashion.

In Association with

Power of Digital

According to Rosemary Steen, CEO of DCCI: “I believe in the power of digital to unlock opportunities in this challenging world, but it must be done in a manner that engages our community in a supportive way. This year has shown a significant interest in digital support from DCCI for our clients and members, and I look forward to building upon that interest to help people maximise opportunities for business growth.

“Ireland is renowned for its exceptionally talented designers and craftspeople who create beautiful work which is exported worldwide. These makers and the retailers make a significant contribution to the Irish economy and provide sustainable employment. Through #MADELOCAL, we want to remind people that we can all play our part, we can help our vibrant Irish design and craft sector to return to prosperity and growth.”

Ms Steen added: “There is an abundance of unique and beautiful products created throughout this country. It is reflective of our culture and history and is intrinsic to who we are. Our research also shows that consumers want to buy products made by local designers and makers. As the economy begins to re-open, we’re calling on these consumers to shop local and consider the breadth of Irish-crafted, high-quality products available here. This will, in turn, help us revitalise our wonderful craft industry.”

Supporting 3,000 Clients

#MADELOCAL continues to run, with over 100 retailers involved in the campaign, supporting the work of DCCI’s 3,000 registered clients. DCCI is the national agency for the commercial development of Irish designers and makers. Its role is stimulating innovation, championing design thinking and informing Government policy.

• More information on Irish craft and design and where to shop products that are #MADELOCAL can be found on the website at www.dcci.ie, and by following #MADELOCAL on social media.

Photo: Breege O’Donoghue (left), Chair of DCCI; author and actor Amy Huberman; Tánaiste Leo Varadkar TD; and Rosemary Steen (right), CEO of DCCI, at the launch of the #MADELOCAL campaign