Supporting local makers is key to economic growth in the craft sector

This week, the Design & Crafts Council Ireland (DCCI) launched its annual Made Local campaign for Summer 2024 at the Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI).

Along with the report the DCCI is encouraging retailers to join the Made Local initiative. Over 361 retailers across the country supporting the Irish design and craft industry by stocking locally-made products. The focus of the campaign, especially during the peak summer tourist season, is to increase accessibility to experience Irish craft first-hand.

Consumer purchasing habits

A survey, conducted by Amárach in March 2024, showed when it comes to purchasing habits, one quarter of respondents said it is ‘very important’ to buy Irish when buying a craft item or gift.

Along with this, 43% of respondents have purchased an Irish made craft item in the past year. The top factors that influence decision-making when buying Irish craft and Irish made products is the quality and design followed closely by wanting to support the local economy, according to the survey.

Of those directly employed in the design and craft sector, employment has risen by 4,000. With more than 14,000 design businesses operating along 7,000 craft businesses, there is year on year growth in the sector.

According to Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment of Ireland, Made Local is vital to the craft sector in Ireland.

“It is crucial that we support our local craftspeople and small business owners and it’s a key factor to the success of our economy. We have seen an increase in the number of people who are aware of Made Local since last year and we would hope to increase this number next year. We want to continue to encourage those traveling to purchase locally made products in Ireland this summer.”

For more information visit here