‘You can taste the gold stars’Comfy clothes, a poker face and staying present in the moment: Ali Dunworth reveals what it’s really like to judge the Irish Food Awards
‘You can taste the gold stars’Comfy clothes, a poker face and staying present in the moment: Ali Dunworth reveals what it’s really like to judge the Irish Food Awards
The year-round taste movementBlas na hÉireann has grown from annual awards into a thriving, year-round movement championing and connecting Ireland’s finest food and drink producers, writes Jordan Mooney
Aviation sector faces turbulence on the path to net zeroAs airlines and airports push to decarbonise, high fuel costs, limited supply of sustainable aviation fuel and slow tech progress threaten to ground the flight of progress
Ireland’s energy paradox: burning gas to go greenWith intermittent wind and solar supply, gas still vital for back-up energy — new solutions such as biomethane, hydrogen and thermal storage are fast emerging
Calculating GHG emissions: inside the standoff on which course to takeIs GWP* a better way to classify methane, or letting farmers off the hook and allowing carbon pollution to persist? Kevin O’Sullivan reports
Affordable electric cars aren’t the future – they’re here nowEVs are no longer luxury items – with prices starting at under €16,000, affordability is finally driving mass adoption in Ireland
Biofuels and hydrogen: Realistic alternative fuels or pie in the sky? Formula One’s move to synthetic fuel in 2026 highlights the promise – and the pitfalls – of alternatives to electrification
EV fleet switch makes financial sense when you look beyond upfront costFleet managers eyeing electric vehicles must consider total cost of ownership, including fuel and maintenance savings, not just sticker price
Smart approach required to deliver National Development PlanThe ESRI points to a labour shortage, the construction industry says capacity is not the issue. Who is correct? The answer may be somewhere in the middle
New way of working brings more choice and better experiences to customersThe enterprise agile model sees Three Ireland’s 1,200 employees assigned to cross-functional multi-disciplinary teams, designed to deliver faster and better outcomes for customers
Employment law: Coping with an increasingly complex legislative landscapeGetting the basics right is fundamental to employment law compliance
Connectivity counts: Why our seaports and airports are crucial economic assetsRemoving Dublin Airport’s passenger cap plus a renewed focus on port infrastructure are key steps to bolstering competitiveness
Thinking of taking the leap into exporting? Don’t worry, help is a handFirst-time exporters can feel overwhelmed by paperwork and regulations but support is available from State agencies and logistics partners
Taking the road less travelled to export successWith trade diversification no longer optional, Irish exporters are increasingly looking beyond traditional markets
Aligning with CSRD can strengthen your business for the longer termChanges made to compy with EU sustainability regulations can benefit your bottom line as well as the environment
‘Let excess cash boost your bottom line and strengthen your firm’s financial position’Effective cash flow management lays the groundwork for long term stability and success
Facilitating future growth: Could pension funds plug the scaling finance gap? Resilience and adaptability of Irish business pay off handsomely in turbulent times but investment needed to boost SME growth
It pays to have a financial plan for every stage of lifeFrom paying off loans to saving for a wedding, financial planning makes sense no matter who you are
Crypto is back but it’s an investment option that’s not for the faint-heartedDigital assets have re-entered the financial conversation but their extreme volatility raises the question: are they a suitable home for people’s savings?
Making your money work for you in a balanced wayWhile there are very good reasons to keep some money in deposit accounts for a rainy day, investing is essential to beat inflation
A seasonal spread: Autumnal nature-based experiences to enjoy across IrelandFrom nostalgia-loaded outings like blackberry or apple picking, to cider tastings and wildlife spotting attractions, enjoy the great outdoors
‘Belfast is perfectly positioned for excursions in almost any direction’Actor Ciaran Bermingham recalls Belfast’s attractions, with days out sightseeing grasped in gaps between his stage and screen roles there
Island life: Inspiring arts from medieval frescoes to modern day films Ireland’s islands regularly inspire artists and filmmakers, and given their wild, rugged beauty, it’s easy to see why, writes Domhnall O’Donoghue
‘Often it’s not the cyberattack that does the damage, it’s how you respond’When the worst happens, preparation key to ensuring the fix isn’t worse than the problem
Multi-layer defences required as the cyber arms race heats upRapid development in tech provides a rich hunting ground for cyber criminals
‘A cybersecurity practitioner must adopt a continuous learning mindset, consistently upskilling’With new technologies, threats and vulnerabilities emerging regularly, knowledge quickly becomes outdated
RDS Horse Show Celebrates 150 Years of Equestrian Excellence in 2025Dublin Horse Show Celebrates 150 Years of Equestrian Excellence in 2025
Chef d’equipe Michael Blake: ‘When your children start beating you, you should stop. So I started helping them instead’What Blake loves most about horses is ‘their intelligence. I especially love trying to understand the difficult ones’
RDS Horse Show family area is perfect for little thrill seekersMemories to last a lifetime are guaranteed for families at this year’s Dublin Horse Show
Nobel institutes annoint work on innovation and growthFactors that fuel sustained bursts of economic expansion not as obvious as one might thinkListen | 02:29
Agentic AI is capable of translating the technology into bottom-line returnsAgentic AI offers a pathway for businesses to move from isolated task automation to organisational wide process transformation
Retailers need to embrace AI to enhance customer experienceGenerative AI and real-time data can help deliver products and services tailored to each customer’s preferences and behaviour
Expansion of biomethane is key to decarbonising the gas network Renewable gases are essential to State’s climate strategy, particularly for sectors where electrification is not possible
Political leadership required to meet challenging climate targetsThe share of energy generation from renewables has increased but significant scale-up is needed if Government 2030 emissions goals are to be achieved
Delays in Ireland’s energy transition will cost us dearlyThe State could face EU fines of €8bn to €26bn for missing climate targets but there are big environmental and societal implications too
Bridging the skills gap: how US Ireland business partnerships are shaping the future workforce US firms are collaborating with Irish universities and training providers to build a robust talent pipeline
A deep-rooted two-way relationship shaped by a shared history Ireland is a natural partner for US firms seeking an international base and the US is an ideal location for Irish entrepreneurs seeking to grow their businesses
Credit where it’s due, but now let’s make our R&D tax regime even more attractiveEnhancements of R&D tax credit offering could better position the State in an increasingly competitive investment environment
When family focus can mean career suicideBreaking the stigma around men taking parental leave is key to building inclusive workplaces, improving retention, and closing gender gaps in career progression
Making a song and dance on the way through the exit doorRevenge quitting is a new headache for human resource professionals, with disgruntled ex-employees airing grievances outside organisations, including on social media
Upskilling for Ireland’s renewable energy strategy presents challenges and opportunitiesKey to success of State’s green energy transition is achieving a balanced workforce of specialists and experts in renewable technologies and support functions
The best free things for families to do in Ireland this summerGiant sculptures, huge cliffs, cycle trails, skate parks, stone forts, ancient tombs – there’s plenty to see and do without breaking the bank
Ireland’s top family hotels give everyone a well-earned restThe likes of kids clubs, connecting rooms and fun activities are on every parent’s check list for a relaxing family break
Domhnall O’Donoghue lists 16 of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches, perfect for a swim this summerIrish beaches that are world beating for swimming, walks, sandcastle-building and stunning backdrops
Bringing AI to bear on financial servicesEvolution of artificial intelligence means the shift from incremental digitalisation to full-scale transformation is accelerating
Keeping pace in the financial fraud arms race Irish fintechs are helping financial services institutions and consumers to take on highly sophisticated criminal operations
A structured environment is key to continued growth in fintechA national fintech hub would help Irish firms to remain competitive as the global industry rapidly expands
Working remotely towards gender equityAre return-to-office mandates setting back gender equality in Ireland?
Ageing gracefully: How the EU can accommodate an older workforceThe age profile of Europe’s working population is increasing fast, so policymakers and employers must adapt quickly and equitably
Not too bored, not too busy: Finding the job quality sweet spotJob quality doesn’t just come down to pay, and improving it doesn’t cost a packet
Protecting the crown jewels: Data security must adapt to rapidly evolving AIThe reputational, financial and operational costs of a breach can be huge
Getting data transfer right in M&A transactionsSafely and correctly transferring data in an acquisition, including on pricing, contacts, credit, supply chain and employees, is a complex undertaking
Data is the currency of the digital ageBusinesses with their data in order have built a foundation that, when coupled with AI, will allow them to start unlocking its value
Letting the customers know they are always right ‘As a small family business, one of the biggest things that sets us apart is that we’re not corporate ... we’re just ourselves’
Mounting costs place further pressure on thin marginsAs the auto-enrolment pension scheme looms, small firms need ‘a strategic roadmap’ to give owners the security to plan for success
Simple cyber steps can make all the difference ‘The bad actors are always inventing new ways to attack’
Sustainability and EDI considerations remain fundamental to attracting top talentJob applicants continue to prioritise values-driven workplaces that align with their ethical and environmental concerns
Why career development is an attractive proposition all roundCompanies willing to invest in their employees’ growth can differentiate themselves from competitors
Culture is key to standing out in a competitive labour marketMoney still talks but flexibility, meaningful work and educational and wellbeing support are all ranked as priorities by prospective employees
Good project management more important than ever as sector’s ambitions broadenTech advances are helping construction firms to move away from spreadsheets and siloed systems towards more connected, data-driven operations
Construction summit brings industry together to address shared challenges and opportunitiesMore than 170 exhibitors and 4,000 delegates expected at two-day National Construction Summit
Green tech a growth area as construction seeks to decarboniseWith sustainability targets now inbuilt at every level, technology is driving innovation in planning, processes and materials
Six principles for investing with a clear conscience The United Nations-supported PRI initiative offers a menu of actions for managing money ethically and sustainably
Values-driven investments are now delivering real financial returnsThe market and regulators are making it easier to maximise yields while reducing social and environmental risks
Long-term prospects for responsible investments remain very attractiveDespite US pushback and green energy’s fluctuating fortunes, ESG isn’t dead – it’s just growing up
Ireland can’t afford to throttle back on aircraft leasing – it’s a global success storyAs the biggest player in aircraft leasing worldwide, Ireland must continue to innovate and invest in education and sustainable technology
Aircraft repairs take off as Ireland’s aviation industry flourishesA big benefit of Ireland’s aircraft leasing success has been the growth of the maintenance, repair and overhaul industry here, though hangar space ‘a challenge’
Talent shortage on the horizon amid booming aviation sectorAs aircraft leasing continues to grow and evolve, the industry must take proactive steps to close off looming gaps in technical, financial and regulatory expertise
Nissan Ireland gearing up for launch of new Micra and LeafThese models bookend Nissan’s electric strategy for Irish drivers, delivering an attainable, compact urban EV in the Micra and a next-generation family EV in the LeafListen | 07:56
Is now the right time for me to buy an electric car?The pressure and momentum behind EVs has been building and building, but have we finally reached the tipping point?
Coming attractions: What new EV models are on their way to the Irish market?A huge number of new EVs to suit all budgets and tastes will be available to drivers in Ireland very soon
Nurturing a more diverse and inclusive societySocial entrepreneurs can challenge entrenched norms and build greater awareness
Social entrepreneurs support their communitiesProperty Marking Ireland, Active Connections and Grow Remove benefit from SEI partnership
Funding social entrepreneurs through the yearsA wide range of corporates and private philanthropists, as well as a number of charitable foundations, have generously supported the work of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland over the years
With data collection at an all-time high, online retail is increasingly individualisedTechnology just part of the story as ‘it’s all about psychology and neuroscience’
‘Ireland has a strong consumer base and a high level of disposable income, making it attractive to retailers’What does the Irish retail landscape look like now and into the future?
Retailers look for tech advantage in an omnichannel worldRetailers are responding to new trends in shopping by integrating their sales channels to provide a unified experience
Regional conferrings emphasise community focus of Engineers IrelandAs well as its national ceremony, Engineers Ireland recently held conferring events in Belfast, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Mullingar and London
Driving innovation nationally and globallyAs well as its Ireland regions, EI has active membership hubs in Britain, Australia and New Zealand
Fellowships recognise exceptional contributions to engineeringThis year 16 people were appointed as Fellows of Engineers Ireland, in recognition of their dedication and talent
How Brown Thomas opened in era of upheaval and social changeThe duo who opened Brown Thomas did so at a time of poverty due to the Irish Famine but also of wealth – that of the emerging business and professional classes, writes Anne Haverty
Where art and fashion met: Pauline Bewick’s Brown Thomas connectionArtist Bewick’s daughter Poppy Melia discovered a treasure trove of commercial artwork for the department store
The winds of change: A thoroughly modern department storeWhen John F McGuire took over Brown Thomas in the 1930s it threw itself into the modern age with gusto, writes Anne Haverty
Set sail for Malahide, north Dublin’s popular day trip destinationSituated on one of the most scenic stretches of the north Dublin coastline, the village has top-class food, water sports a plenty and ancient history for all the family to explore, all on the city’s doorstep
Living – working and visiting – is all easier in sunny GoreyThe bustling Wexford town of Gorey is the gateway to the sunny southeast
There’s lots to do in Dublin 2Dublin’s south inner city is home to some of the capital’s most beautiful tourism destinations, is peppered with great restaurants and historic landmarks, and is a treasure trove of independently-owned stores
What does Guaranteed Irish mean in an increasingly globalised world?It’s not just about made in Ireland - it’s about supporting Ireland, chief executive Brid O’Connell tells dentsu’s Dave Winterlich
Marking 50 years of Guaranteed Irish – one of our most trusted brandsAhead of GI's 2024 awards ceremony, we ask what difference a Guaranteed Irish Business Award can make
Guaranteed Irish: How members are making an impact on communities all over IrelandMember companies such as Chapters Bookstore, Glenisk, Wavin Ireland, Donegal Bees, Fleetwood Paints and PTSB desire strong engagement with their local communities
Mixing business with leisure makes the most of a work trip awayTacking on some extra holiday time to work trips is a cost-effective way to see the world beyond the business districts
More traditional tour operators take the stress out of solo travelTour operators are responding to increased demand from solo travellers for getaways that aren’t tailored for two
Travel trends for 2025: Holidaymakers opt for old favourites and new locationsTravel journalist Melanie May looks at the top destinations and what travellers are seeking out for the year ahead
Foreign holidays are in demand, so don’t wait around for last-minute dealsMulti-generational holidays increasingly popular as people prioritise travel over other discretionary spends
Ireland in summer is incomparableNot everyone wants to be on a beach in a hot country. Some people prefer the lush greenness that you get with our climate
What kind of accommodation is the best for couples?A key reason couples may choose a self-catering unit is because they want to bring their ‘lockdown puppies’
Building a bridge to support Ireland’s needsHow Sisk meets Ireland’s society and economic needs via transport infrastructure
At the coalface of global warmingWe all have our part to play in this fight but engineers are at the coalface when it comes to renewable solutions and energy efficiency
What more can be done to attract women into careers in engineering?With female levels of participation in the industry still low, Deanna O’Connor asks if enough is being done to encourage women to take up engineering careers
Helping Irish enterprise to realise its future growth potentialReaching 25 years in operation has offered Enterprise Ireland the opportunity for introspection and recognition of the achievements of Irish enterprise
Celebrating the success and growth of Irish enterpriseEnterprise Summit looks back on achievements of Irish owned businesses over past 25 years and looks forward to continued success
Going all out on pampering at homeWith money tight these days and regular salon visits no longer attainable for many, these are essential kit items for home manicures, pedicures and facials, says Aisling Keenan
An essential guide to skincare through life’s ages and stagesSkincare products available over the counter can contain active ingredients that a decade ago would only come on the basis of professional advice and people can overuse them
Good mouth health has become the less sexy side of dentistryThere’s more to dental treatments than cosmetic dentistry and whiter than white celeb smiles. Deanna O’Connor on the importance of looking after your dental health
Ukraine war: Mixed signals from European states on any future peacekeeping force European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen chided by German defence minister after ‘pretty precise plans’ remark Listen | 04:03
Donald Trump’s era of Dick Turpin economics creates risks for our economyIf you thought the US trade deal with the EU brought certainty for Ireland, then think againListen | 06:01
Presenting Europe: new exhibition tells the 50-year story of Ireland in the EUA theme throughout is identity, and how our identity as Irish people sits surprisingly comfortably alongside the identity of us as Europeans
Lero to invest €2.9m in postdoctoral fellowship programmeFunding to be put towards 16 fellowshipsListen | 02:19
Increased spending on R&D to support sustainable practicesIn Ireland this spending spans a wide range of sectors as sustainability becomes an important competitiveness differentiator
Technology is transforming R&D landscapeOne of the biggest drivers of this here is Science Foundation Ireland’s network of research centres
Reading to babies and toddlersLooking through picture books helps children figure out their everyday world and prepares them for focusing on the more complex symbols of language
‘It’s not what you offer, it’s how you offer it’: How to deal with picky eatingPicky eating is the a normal developmental phase with up to 75 percent of parents dealing with it at some point
First steps: Fun-filled activities for tots and toddlers Swimming, soccer or yoga classes can give your child lifelong skills - and benefit parents too
Put your symptoms on pauseNatural and supplementary remedies for the symptoms of menopause are becoming more widely used and available, but which ones will actually ease things for you?
Mona Eltahawy: ‘You have to moisturise your vulva every day’ The feminist author busts some myths about menopause in the latest episode of The Women’s PodcastListen | 50:57
Home-grown international success storiesIrish companies’ success in Europe is built on strong cultural foundations at home
Culture the key ingredient in making somewhere a great place to workWhat separates 100 Ireland’s Best Workplaces from the rest? The data provides some valuable insights
Building meaningful connections in the new world of workBlended working can provide an opportunity to socially connect with team-mates
