Carlow SMEs bring home ‘Top Drawer’ inspiration

CARLOW businesses gained invaluable insights into emerging retail, lifestyle and craft trends at the prestigious Top Drawer London trade show on 13 and 14 January, thanks to a fully supported visit organised by Carlow County Council’s Local Enterprise Office (LEO).

The group – representing some of Carlow’s most dynamic small and medium enterprises – travelled to Olympia London alongside representatives from South East Technological University (SETU) and Kilkenny Local Enterprise Office.

LEO Carlow subsidised and arranged the two-day trip, allowing the business owners to immerse themselves in one of Europe’s leading showcases for home, gift, fashion, craft and food. Top Drawer brought together more than 500 exhibitors, ranging from household names to emerging designers, offering a snapshot of the latest product innovations and consumer trends for 2025.

Rachel Doyle, who owns handcrafted jewellery brand Blueberry Soul and operates Rara Photography, found inspiration in the event’s Retail Revealed stage sessions. “I left feeling so inspired and couldn’t wait to start implementing new strategies. From a designer’s perspective, the trends for 2025 were really strong and insightful – seeing how similar businesses displayed their products was great.” She credits the Local Enterprise Office for the seamless organisation and financial support: “Everything was organised for us and heavily subsidised. I can’t emphasise enough the importance of reaching out to your LEO. The support I’ve received has been invaluable – it has kept my businesses current and successful.” 

For Enchanted Castle Melts owner Joanne Doyle, Top Drawer London offered a timely look at consumer shifts in home fragrance and bath products. “I found the focus on raw, toned-back, neutral aesthetics for candle containers very interesting – this shift stands out compared to the sleek luxury finishes of previous years,” she said. “Attending with the Local Enterprise Office meant I was well prepared and could focus on learning. It gave me unique perspectives to view my business from and helped me better promote my brand, convert social media traffic and unify my story across platforms.” 

Ciara Stanely, owner of country clothing line Ballybar Ireland, was also in attendance to observe consumer, retail and social media trends for 2025 as well as the opportunity to network with other Carlow-based SMEs that came along. “I wouldn't have known about Top Drawer unless LEO had told me. I do a lot of work through the enterprise board and a lot of networking through them as well. I find their help invaluable,” added Ms Stanley.