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
Sweeter than ever The story of this year’s Blas na hÉireann Supreme Champion is an unforgettable one, for the two young food entrepreneurs who won the accolade, but also for everyone involved, writes Dee Laffan
Cook with a chef’s larderTrade up to Blas award-winning ingredients to upgrade your kitchen output, with recipes by Clare Anne O’Keefe
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
Tapping out: Water shortages threaten Ireland’s economic futureAs population and economy expand, tension is increasing between environmental concerns and the economic necessity of infrastructure upgrades
Closing the charging infrastructure gap is key to making EV switchoverGood news for drivers - with multiple operators in the market, EV charging points are being installed at hotels, forecourts and retail parks
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
More balanced model of industrial support may be beneficial Is there a happy medium to be struck between support for foreign direct investment and indigenous industry?
Presidential suites: Where to stay when you want somewhere fit for a head of stateLuxury hotel suites designed with world leaders in mind, in Ireland, New York, London and Paris
Innovation in women’s health: Ireland has the potential to lead Europe in femtech A new report states stronger support for female health innovation and entrepreneurship could unlock economic potential, address health inequities and strengthen the life sciences and technology sectors
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
Food and drink exports surge as changing tastes reshape the marketExports reach record €17bn, with dairy and whiskey among top performers bucking current trends
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
Hardheaded approach pays dividends when funding MBOs Access to a broad range of funding options when planning an MBO will avoid excess leverage
Getting the funding mix right crucial for successful acquisitions Not every company has the ready cash to finance the purchase of another business. And even if they did, it might not be the best use for the money
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
Ask the expert v DIY: The pros and cons of investing soloKnowledge, tax obligations, diversification – go-it-alone investment may be easier now but there are many bases to cover
The single best investment most people can ever make Not only do investors get tax relief on their contributions, but they also enjoy tax free growth in their pension fund
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
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
‘As our lives become more digital, cybersafety is becoming a basic life skill – not just a technical one’Taking some basic steps to protect yourself and your family against cyberattacks can help in the long run
Young talent key to Ireland’s show jumping success‘We might not necessarily have better horses than others on European teams, but we have far better riders’
The 150th Dublin Horse Show: a legacy of Irish equestrian excellenceA beloved fixture of Ireland’s sporting and social calendar, and one of the oldest events of its kind in the world, the Dublin Horse Show celebrates 150 years this August
RDS show director: ‘To win a rosette at Dublin is a matter of pride’Royal Dublin Show’s Fiona Sheridan reveals what it takes to showcase the best of Irish equestrianism
Nobel institutes annoint work on innovation and growthFactors that fuel sustained bursts of economic expansion not as obvious as one might thinkListen | 02:29
Despite concerns, AI is already making our lives easierFrom education and online shopping to medicine and social protection, artificial intelligence is embedded in and beneficial to modern life
Exciting new frontier or appalling vista? Artists confront the rise of AI As generative AI transforms the creative landscape, artists and industry leaders weigh its promise against its pitfalls
Increased incentives could alter the maths for EV targetsCurrent electric vehicle figures don’t add up but a Climate Change Advisory Council proposal might drive things in the right direction
Structural issues see State languishing in lower divisions of global energy transitionDespite vast renewable potential, the Republic’s sluggish planning, grid constraints and fossil fuel dependence have relegated it to 45th place in world rankings
It’s not all bad news for Ireland’s offshore wind ambitionsBut much more can be done to accelerate progress and realise the enormous potential of transforming our energy system
Accentuating our advantages and addressing competitiveness concerns key to future FDI successStrength of two-way US-Ireland relationship is of even greater importance against backdrop of proposed tariffs
Ringing the changes on sustainability The long-term imperative to decarbonise remains in place but 2025 has brought a more pragmatic tone to EU-level regulation
Culture of collaboration is the basis of global research successThey synergy of industry, academic institutions and state agencies fosters innovation and strengthens Ireland’s competitiveness
Tapping into the opportunities presented by the multigenerational workplace More people staying in work longer means employers can harness experience, boost inclusion and rethink career paths for all generations
Secrets to success in a transformed world of work The challenges posed by change, from AI and remote work to an ageing workforce, mean companies need not just tech but better planning, leadership and support for their people
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
Summer activities for the whole family, one for every countyCultural and music festivals, daytime stargazing, charming village markets, gigantic slides - Ireland’s 32 counties have something for everyone
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
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
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
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
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
Simple cyber steps can make all the difference ‘The bad actors are always inventing new ways to attack’
Family dynamic is often a key success factorNatural competitiveness motivates those in family-run businesses to never settle for second best
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’
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
Break free from career stagnation with microcredsMicro-credential courses allow for study at an employee’s own pace and ensure the learning and awards gained are ‘stackable’
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
Scale and complexity could hobble new planning legislationAims of Planning and Development Act ‘laudable’ but experts fear it could further burden an already complex system
Modular housing offers faster delivery with added environmental benefitsOff-site building techniques have potential to resolve housing stock shortage while cutting waste and transport emissions
Doing your investment homework pays valuable dividendsTop ESG-rated companies shown to outperform others but fund strategy must meet investors' financial needs
As biodiversity loss continues, $50 trillion of natural capital must be protectedThe fact that more than half of global GDP depends on materials and processes provided by nature means responsible investment makes economic sense
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
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
Innovative funding mechanisms have helped fuel aviation growthCapacity constraint due to supply-demand pressures has been good news overall for the aircraft leasing sector, with rates substantially higher than a year ago
GenAI a competitive edge for aviation leasing firms that think like tech firmsAI will not replace the need for highly educated professionals in the industry but it will ‘elevate their ability to digest, respond and understand risks’
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
‘You see the passion and the ambition in these projects’DCC has been a strong supporter of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland for many years. Its chief executive Donal Murphy explains the benefits to both parties
Social entrepreneurs are bringing the arts to the massesSocial Entrepreneurs Ireland recognises the importance of community and the value of the arts in shaping it
How social entrepreneurs are helping to tackle climate changeEndeavours encourage us not to be part of the problem but teach us how to be part of the solution
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
Engineers Ireland: The professional home for all engineersEI hubs provide links and opportunities for members based in Britain and the North, as well as in the Sta
Registered professional titles are Irish engineering’s ‘gold standard’Engineers Ireland registered professional titles recognise members’ skills and signal their expertise
Conferring ceremony celebrates engineering excellence in IrelandAbout 100 engineers received professional titles at EI’s annual conferring ceremony in Dublin
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
Tasty trips to take in 2025: From Michelin-star spots and rustic cuisine, to food trucks and wine cellarsOne of the greatest joys of holidays is wining and dining. If you’re planning a trip, Aoife Carrigy has some top tips for tasty trips
Down with devices: Get children off the internet and out in the worldFrom adventure activities in the great outdoors, to cultural capitals, Danielle Barron rounds up the best ideas to get children engaged with the world around them on holidays
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
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’
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
Researching and developing Ireland’s engineering ecosystemSupporting Ireland's R&D ecosystem is crucial to maintain a competitive edge
Building a bridge to support Ireland’s needsHow Sisk meets Ireland’s society and economic needs via transport infrastructure
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
Non-invasive facial procedures can help achieve the Cinderella effectThe number of face lifts completed has fallen as more people are opting for non-surgical treatments as a way of avoiding or delaying the face lift until a later stage,
Where do beauty and wellness converge this year? On values and valueWhat’s ahead in the beauty and wellness industries for 2023? Aisling Keenan makes her predictions and points to what the landscape might look like this time next year
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
R&D planning proving difficult amid global uncertaintyR&D in Ireland is becoming ever more expensive and there is a severe shortage of software developers
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
