Family business: ‘It boils down to whether the next generation are capable’Most enterprises start out as family businesses but keeping them that way can be challenging, Deanna O’Connor reports
Amid a rise in corporate retreats, hospitality ups its game‘There’s a strong push to reconnect teams and drive meaningful outcomes,’ says Ger Alley, general manager at Killashee Hotel
A far cry from The Quiet Man: Ireland’s film industry has its momentAudiovisual adds €1bn to Irish economy but sector’s contribution can’t be counted in euro alone
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
Diversity still perceived as a valuable factor in successMany companies are ‘holding fast’ on DEI, although exposure to a US parent business or clients has seen some relabelling of activity and policies
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
Filling tomorrow’s skills gaps today: how to plan for jobs that don’t yet existRapid technological and economic change means business success will soon depend on agility and innovation, while employees who commit to reinvention will be best placed for new opportunities
AI won’t steal your job – the human who knows how to use it will From students to CEOs, everyone needs to get AI-savvy. The workplaces of the future will reward those who keep up
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
Adaptability is key to success in rapidly evolving regtech spaceIrish regtech firms are navigating the tangled web of global regulatory requirements by crafting systems that are scalable and adaptable
Ireland’s fintech surge defies global investment slowdownNumbers stand out as State moves beyond being a launch pad for early-stage start-ups
Developing the skills Irish fintech requires to grow and competeTargeted training, Government investment and a centralised hub can fuel the sector’s continued growth and competitiveness
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
Arrive and thrive: A helping hand for moving to IrelandA tailored relocation services package makes it easier for corporate clients, individuals and families to relocate from abroad
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
Unleashing the power of artificial intelligence in the face of new risksOrganisations need a clear data strategy before feeding into LLMs, covering such factors as security, privacy, transparency and regulatory compliance
Greasing the wheels: is eco-fuel supply ready to make a dent in our emissions?Replacements for petrol and diesel already exist but diversification of inputs will be crucial as airlines compete with motorists for supplies
Biomethane should have been a no-brainer for Ireland. The road ahead is unclearClean energy from farm and food wastes is a no-brainer but a new era of Irish biomethane is far from assured.
Rowback is not a policy when clean tech is the only game in town As geopolitical turmoil reshapes global priorities, climate action is taking a backseat. From corporate rollbacks to political U-turns, a once-urgent transition to clean energy faces fresh obstacles. But in a world increasingly dependent on fossil fuels, delays will only drive up costs—both economic and environmental.
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
Sustainability matters despite signs of flagging momentumhe reality is that all businesses will be required to decarbonise – think of it in terms of evolution rather than revolution
On the road with Cork troubadours Joe Carey of The White Horse Guitar Club reflects on the Ballincollig-based band’s recent three-stop Irish tour, with gigs in Belfast, Portlaoise and Durrow
A Breton film-maker and his 50-year love affair with IrelandBreton documentary film-maker Jean-Luc Diquelou explains his near 50-year passion for the people and the natural beauty of the west coast of Ireland
Summer events huge draw for Irish staycationersA new staycation season springs fresh adventure, writes Thom Breathnach
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
Flexible working still ranks highly for employees when it comes to choosing a jobAs a lever for attracting and retaining talent, flexibility is highly prized, and that doesn’t look set to change any time soon
How AI’s predictive capability can reduce turnover and improve hiring outcomesArtificial intelligence allows HR teams to make more informed choices on everything from talent acquisition to employee retention strategies
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
Construction careers: Opportunities across many areas of booming industry Volume of building projects means industry is experiencing significant on-site and off-site skills shortages
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’
Production delays prompt crisis of aircraft supplyLeasing companies are undertaking critical shifts in strategy, including considering emerging manufacturers such as Embraer and Comac
Quality and safety key to Ireland’s global reputation in food exportsIreland exports nearly 90 per cent of its food production, with key markets in the UK, EU and beyond
With Brexit controls still to come, Ireland must diversify its export baseThe UK remains our biggest market but post-Brexit inspections yet to be introduced will affect Irish exporters
Sustainability focus could help Irish firms meet competitiveness challengeCompetitors have raised the stakes for Irish exporters but green energy could put the wind at our backs
The future is electric but how long will it take to get there?No one seems to seriously doubt that eventually all cars will be electric but with EV sales slowing in Ireland, expect some detours along the wayListen | 16:52
New EVs: What’s coming to the market soon?The variety of new electric cars is expanding fast – here’s our pick of models coming down the roadListen | 16:06
The question many Irish drivers are asking: Is an EV right for me?You know it makes sense to switch to an electric vehicle and yet it can be, well, complicated
Proactively manage your working capital to help keep cash flow smoothWhat can businesses do when they face a working capital or payment cycle issue?
No shortage of finance for good companies with sound propositionsBusinesses need access to capital for a variety of reasons, so what are the options open to companies seeking finance in an elevated interest rate environment?
Angel investors a heaven-sent source of capital for early-stage firmsAngel investors, who usually provide capital in exchange taking an equity stake, are increasingly important for start-ups and early-stage businesses
Property investment: It still pays to take a punt on bricks and mortarDespite the limitations on rent increases, residential investment property owners still benefit from healthy capital appreciation
Europe is leading the recovery after global green investment wobbleWhat’s the best advice for environmentally and socially conscious investors who want to make a decent return?
Gold offers certainty amid market volatility and geopolitical crisisA new generation of investors is seeing gold as a safe haven, with values predicted to match historical highs
Ireland’s EV charging network in need of a jolt of energyEven with sagging electric car sales, the network of charging points needs a serious upgrade. How long will we have to wait?
EV purchase slump due to ‘perfect storm’ of charger and pricing problemsElectric car sales have declined by a more than a quarter in a year – what can be done to halt the slide?
Transport emissions: Is Ireland’s 2030 target already off the rails?Claims that Ireland will miss its 50 per cent transport emissions reductions target by almost half raise the question: what can we do now?
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
Bringing in the professionals to deal with a crisisThe first thing companies need to do is ascertain that it is actually a crisis, and not a blip
Amid a rising tide of cyber regulation, experts give their sayKeeping on top of new regulations can be overwhelming, but they are essential and will in time be of benefit to all companies
Ireland is increasingly vulnerable amid intensifying cyberattacksAn ever more complex and aggressive cyberthreat landscape makes dynamic, proactive corporate strategies essential
Before and after AIArtificial intelligence brings many benefits - but also risks that must be mastered
Powering new discoveries: How AI is helping researchersAI can be used in modelling, analysis, natural language processing and data management right up to synthetic design, molecule design and clinical diagnostics
Shining a light into the black boxAlgorithmic or ‘coder’ bias can give rise to prejudiced AI-informed decisions and, thus, to unfairness
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
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
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
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
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
How the EU brought about ‘rapid and profound’ social change in IrelandAcademics, lobbyists and positive change advocates speak to Rita de Brún about the EU’s impact on societal change in Ireland
An Ghaeilge faoi bhláth san Aontas EorpachAistear dúshlánach a bhí ann, ó thús corrach go stádas iomlán rathúil ar deireadh thiar, a deir Pádraig Breandán Ó Laighin
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
