Pop-up shop is showcasing the best of handcrafted gifts
THE 2018 Made in Sligo Christmas Pop-up Shop was officially opened on 6 th December at their new location 8, John Street in the heart of Sligo Town. Head of Regional Development of the Western Development Commission ( WDC) Ian Brannigan launched the 2018 Pop-up Shop.
As the people of Sligo demonstrated a huge appetite for buying local hand crafted gifts last Christmas, the Pop-up has returned as Sligo ups its drive to maximise support for local goods and services in the busiest shopping period of the year.
“I was delighted to launch this unique Sligo Christmas Shop, where each and every item is hand made locally” said Ian Brannigan of WDC “and as Head of Regional Development it is great to connect with talented members of Made in Sligo who play a key role in promoting Sligo.
“With the Pop-up Shop customers are guaranteed to meet a maker each time they pop in which is a wonderful engaging experience for visitors.”
The six Made in Sligo members who will be selling their handcrafted work in the shop are Matt Jones Woodturner Artist, Rachel Quinn Ceramics, Alison Hunter Artist, Tom Callery Ceramics, Of Wood and Willow and Breeogue Pottery.
Made in Sligo, which started up in 2010, brings together all that is excellent in Sligo craft, creativity and design under one brand, and acts as a flagship for craft producers in Co. Sligo.
The group expanded in 2018 to include new makers and they are currently developing a new website.
“Everyone agrees, given the recent economic challenges, it’s more important than ever to support local businesses, particularly smaller local enterprises” said Matt Jones, Chairperson of Made in Sligo.
“Our jointly run store in John Street will make it easier for shoppers to buy local as we bring together a wide range of gift ideas, made by a variety of craft workers, under one roof. We were so enthused by reactions from shoppers last year that we decided to do it all again for Christmas 2018.
People absolutely loved buying a special hand crafted gift while at the same time enjoying the feeling that they were playing an authentic role in helping to sustain jobs in Co. Sligo.”