If you’re seeing a blue tile take over your social media feeds today, here’s why: The Made Local campaign is supporting Irish makers this summer
If you’re seeing this blue tile all over your Instagram and Facebook feeds today, it’s because there’s a brilliant new initiative encouraging all of us to support Irish producers, makers and retailers this summer. The Made Local campaign is a nationwide initiative to boost sales and drive revenue for both makers and retailers, created by Design and Crafts Council Ireland.
“Our ambition is that the Made Local campaign will remind consumers taking staycations this year of the high-quality, unique products available from Irish makers and designers across the country. Consumers will see the newly designed Made Local symbol in participating retailers when shopping for gifts and keepsakes during their holidays.”
– Design & Crafts Council Ireland
Over 100 retailers and 750 makers have already opted-in to the campaign, as well as well-known faces such as Amy Huberman and Tánaiste and Minister for Trade, Enterprise and Employment, Leo Varadkar lending their voices in support. And we’re happy to get behind it here at Irish Country Magazine. Supporting Irish businesses and #IrishMade products is a huge part of what we love to do here at the magazine, and we will be looking out for the #MadeLocal symbol throughout our staycations this summer.
5 ways to support local on your staycation:
- If you’re visiting a loved one on your travels and want to bring a special gift, there are so many great stores across Ireland that support Irish creatives, including online stores. Look for the #MadeLocal badge or stamp when shopping.
- From candles and jewellery, to blankets, ceramics and art – there are so many beautifully-made items to be discovered across the country. On your travels, be sure to take note of the names of makers as you go along, and follow them on social media. You never know who you might discover in Donegal, Galway, Kerry and beyond!
- Doing up your house or looking for a new wardrobe staple? Consider looking for local pieces in village boutiques, craft shops, studios and galleries – you are guaranteed to return home with something unique and will always associate that special purchase with your holiday.
- When picking up groceries for your trip, have a look for Irish producers – all of the large supermarkets and convenience stores have a good selection of local products. If you have the budget and time, shopping around in bakeries, butchers or smaller, independent shops is a good way to support local food producers.
- If eating out, cafés, bars and restaurants across the country often support local farmers, producers, coffee roaster and distilleries – look up the supplier names on the menu and choose a craft beer, Irish gin or local seafood (plus lots more!), for dinner.
Entry to the Irish Made Awards is open now – deadline on Monday, 10 August. You could win over €8,000 worth of support for your business! Check out the categories now, entering your business couldn’t be easier!
