Fáilte Takes Businesses to New Heights
Carrolls Irish Gifts Launches Third Annual ‘Fáilte’ Initiative
Supporting Small Irish Businesses
The successful Fáilte initiative returns for its third year, following an investment of €50,000 in Irish Businesses. With applications from over 120 businesses since launching, Carrolls Irish Gifts are proud to announce the launch of ‘Fáilte’ 2025, an exciting initiative offering small Irish businesses the opportunity to have their products stocked on Carrolls Irish Gifts shelves nationwide, and online.
Now in its third year, ‘Fáilte’ was established in 2023 to encourage and support small Irish businesses. SMEs play a key role in driving innovation and providing employment, yet many face challenges in scaling up. Carrolls Irish Gifts, known for their commitment to championing local entrepreneurs and celebrating Irish creativity, have provided a platform for businesses of all kinds to grow and thrive through the ‘Fáilte’ initiative.
Jean McCabe, CEO Retail Excellence Ireland, said:
"SMEs and local enterprises are vital to Ireland's economy. Opportunities like the Fáilte initiative are crucial in providing small businesses with platforms to showcase their products, thereby enhancing their visibility and competitiveness in the market."
From Friday, April 4th, Carrolls Irish Gifts is inviting small Irish businesses to apply for the Fáilte competition and meet with its buying team to share their journey so far and what a partnership with Carrolls would mean for them. Applications close on May 4th, after which shortlisted businesses will go through an interview process before a final winner is selected.
CEO of Carrolls Irish Gifts, Peter Hyland commented on the launch:
“We are delighted to introduce Fáilte 2025, marking a significant milestone in the success of this initiative over the past two years. At Carrolls Irish Gifts, we are passionate about championing Irish talent, with 80% of our products sourced from Irish suppliers, reinforcing our commitment to supporting local. The calibre of applications we receive for Fáilte continues to highlight the creativity and passion of entrepreneurs across the island, and we can’t wait to see which fantastic product will earn a place on our shelves this year.”
Jessica Ennis from Enniskinn, the 2024 winner of the Fáilte initiative added:
“'Winning the Carrolls Irish Gifts Failte initiative has been a game changer for Enniskinn. There's no better welcome into the retail industry than working with the Carrolls team! Their mentorship has helped to create the foundational 'building blocks' of what's needed to become a success in the retail market. I would massively encourage anyone who's thinking about entering the competition to just go for it!”
The winner of the competition will receive a comprehensive support package, including stocking their products in multiple stores nationwide, online promotion of their brand worth up to €20,000, and a full day of business mentoring across a range of areas including marketing, finance, retail sales and operations and product strategy.
Daniel Mooney, Owner of Mundo Moo, a Fáilte 2024 participant, now stocked in Carrolls Irish Gifts said:
“Carrolls Irish Gifts has been very open and supportive in bringing MUNDO MOO into their stores, embracing my designs and allowing me to stay true to my artistic style. The Carrolls team has been amazing to work with—so receptive and easy to collaborate with, making the whole process a breeze. I’m so excited for you all to see what we have in store!”
Entries are open from April 4th to May 4th, and businesses can apply by completing an online application on the Carrolls Irish Gifts website.
For more information and to apply for Fáilte please visit here.