TWO West Cork small businesses were among 15 from across the county showcasing their wares at the craft and design exhibition at the RDS in Dublin at the weekend.

Bantry-based Claire O’Sullivan of WASI Seaweed skincare and Louise Kingston of Inchydoney Candles were supported by Cork County Local Enterprise Office.

Claire O’Sullivan, founder of WASI Seaweed, was shortlisted as one of three finalists under the category of Sustainability Champion for the Business of Craft Awards as part of the Local Enterprise Showcase.

Claire creates a range of skincare products that include body oils, soaps and bath salts using hand-harvested Irish seaweed.

Mentoring and grants are just some of the supports from LEO and the Local Enterprise showcase at the RDS provides a vibrant destination for international and domestic buyers to discover over 100 talented designers and crafters.

Showcase - one of Ireland’s largest international trade shows - has been running for over 50 years.

It offers manufacturers, designers, and craft makers the opportunity to exhibit their collections to 3,000 buyers visiting from Ireland and overseas including the UK, the USA, Europe and Asia, while generating sales orders of over €25.6 million during the three-day show.

More than 400 Irish brands exhibit at the fair, including both established and emerging Irish businesses, and buyers get to meet the makers and hear their stories.

Though shortlisted WASI Seaweed did not secure a win but there was some success for Cork with Hanna’s Bees winning the Best Gift category and Saw Framed, also Cork-based, winning the Jewellery category.

Mary Palmer, chairperson of Showcase, said: ‘Showcase continues to play a central role in supporting and promoting Irish craft and design, providing an important platform for makers to connect with buyers from around the world. Each year the calibre and originality exceeds all expectations.’