Local Enterprise Office Louth is preparing to shine a spotlight on three innovative creative businesses from the county as they get ready to present their work at Showcase 2026, Ireland’s leading international trade fair for craft, design and giftware.
The event will take place at the RDS in Dublin from Sunday 18 to Tuesday 20 January 2026. It will feature more than 400 Irish brands and attract buyers from Ireland, the UK, Europe, the United States and beyond. For creative enterprises, Showcase provides a valuable opportunity to develop new commercial relationships and grow their presence in international markets.
Gráinne McKeown of Local Enterprise Office Louth said the event plays a vital role in helping creative businesses scale. She explained that Showcase places Irish craft and design directly in front of influential buyers from around the world and said the office is proud to support three Louth businesses that are well positioned to benefit from the experience.
The three Louth exhibitors reflect the depth of talent and originality within the county’s creative sector.
Almond Rose Designs, based in Clogherhead, creates environmentally friendly, pet-themed greeting cards that celebrate the bond between pets and their owners. Founded by graphic designer Fiona, with assistance from her collies Lexie and Leia, the business also produces bespoke cards for companies, making it popular with animal lovers, retailers and pet-related businesses.
The full range is available at www.petcards.ie.
Louth-based artist Tracy Fry produces distinctive resin maps, landscapes and symbolic copper artworks inspired by nature and Irish heritage. Her work combines texture, topography and storytelling to create contemporary handcrafted pieces with enduring character.
More information can be found at Tracy Fry Art.
Dundalk jeweller Rebecca McDermott will be attending Showcase for the first time. She creates fine handcrafted jewellery inspired by the sea, shoreline textures and natural imperfection. Working sustainably with recycled metals and ethically sourced stones in her coastal workshop, she produces elegant, timeless pieces that are hallmarked in Dublin Castle. Her collection can be viewed at www.rebeccamcdermottjewellery.com.
Thomas McEvoy, Deputy Chief Executive of Louth County Council, said that supporting creative enterprise is central to the council’s vision for a strong local economy. He added that events like Showcase open doors for individual businesses while also strengthening Louth’s reputation as a hub for innovation and design, both nationally and internationally.
