Kilkenny businesses shine bright at Ireland's largest tourism trade event

A number of Kilkenny businesses were in attendance at Meitheal, the largest and most important trade event for the Irish tourism industry, this week. 

The Pembroke Hotel, Kilkenny City Tours, Shenanigans Walks Kilkenny, and Kilkenny Design Centre were amongst the many businesses that travelled down to the event, held at the Gleneagle INEC in Killarney.

Meitheal is Fáilte Ireland’s annual flagship trade event, organised in partnership with Tourism Ireland, to provide Irish tourism businesses with the opportunity to sell directly to top international buyers and tour operators.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of Irish tourism bodies hosting trade events to promote Ireland to influential overseas buyers.

Significant business deals are expected to be signed over two days as over 10,000 sales meetings are scheduled to take place between 389 Irish tourism providers and 255 international buyers and tour operators from 15 countries.

The countries represented are Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Spain, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates, Great Britain, and the USA.

The best of what is on offer in Ireland’s Ancient East, Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, the Wild Atlantic Way, and Dublin was showcased with the aim of being scheduled on the itineraries of the global tour operators.

Key themes and trends interesting international buyers this year include multi-generational trips, small private tours, outdoor activities and immersive experiences that incorporate food and traditional craft making.

Director of Demand Development at Fáilte Ireland Niall Tracey said, “For 50 years, tourism trade events have brought together the best of our local industry with international partners, creating lasting relationships that benefit our economy and showcase the unique beauty and culture of Ireland.

"For a small island, we have a fantastic legacy as a visitor destination with a huge amount to offer from world-class scenery, hospitality, activities, attractions, culture, heritage, and food.

"With the significant investment in the tourism product in recent years, there are many new or improved attractions and experiences on offer all around Ireland that buyers will be learning about over the two days.

"I have no doubt they will leave Meitheal 2025 with many new additions to itineraries and countless reasons to sell Ireland to their clients," he concluded.