Two Carlow businesses take to the national stage at Showcase 2026 in Dublin

Businesses from Carlow had the opportunity to meet buyers from all over the world recently as part of the Local Enterprise 2026 Showcase in the RDS, Dublin. 

Flower Child and Blueberry Soul were both exhibiting at Showcase 2026, which saw over 3,300 buyers from 27 countries attend the three-day event, looking to secure new sales and partners for the year ahead. Upwards of €32 million in business was expected to have been transacted across the event.

The two Carlow businesses made excellent first impressions. 

Flower Child creates handmade home scents and candles inspired by the Irish countryside. Bringing the garden indoors through carefully blended fragrances, the brand was inspired by founder Alexandria Kelly’s love of gardening.

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Rachel Doyle, founder of Blueberry Soul, creates handcrafted jewellery inspired by the natural beauty and energy of semi-precious stones. Sustainability and ethical craftsmanship are at the core of Blueberry Soul and each piece is designed for everyday wear.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin visited the Local Enterprise Showcase at the RDS and highlighted how important trade shows are to the design and crafts sector.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “I’m delighted to visit Showcase 2026, an event that continues to highlight the very best of Irish craft and design. Showcase remains a vital platform for our makers, providing them with the opportunity to present their work to national and international audiences and to build meaningful connections in global markets. The creativity, skill and innovation on display here today reflect the depth of talent that exists across Ireland, particularly within our rural and regional communities.

"Craft is not only central to our cultural identity but also plays an important role in supporting sustainable enterprise and employment throughout the country, contributing to the national economy and Ireland’s export market. The Government remains committed to supporting Ireland’s craft and design sector as it continues to grow, adapt and compete internationally. I wish all the exhibitors every success at Showcase 2026 and look forward to seeing Irish creativity continue to thrive on the world stage," he added. 

The Carlow-based companies were selected by Local Enterprise Office Carlow to take part in this year’s Showcase 2026.  They have been working closely with them in recent months to ensure they are in the best possible position to maximise their appearance at the event including sales technique, marketing materials and stand production.  

Reflecting on the event, Kieran Comerford, Head of Economic Development & Enterprise for Carlow County Council, stated: "We were delighted to have two Carlow companies, Flower Child and Blueberry Soul, representing the county at the Local Enterprise Showcase at the RDS. Showcase brings together over 3,300 buyers from 27 countries and provides a productive platform to build orders and partnerships for the year ahead, something that I know Alexandria and Rachel have benefitted from through their hard work and networking at the event."

When asked about the Showcase event, Cllr Ken Murnane, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, said, "It was a fantastic opportunity for Flower Child and Blueberry Soul to showcase their talent and the talent within Carlow on a national stage. The exhibition is incredibly beneficial to makers and craftspeople as it connects them with national and international buyers and supports next steps for growth."