It was an overwhelming success in 2022 – and it has been confirmed that ‘Shine’, a one-day tradeshow style event in Emo Court that also hosts Ireland’s Fittest Team event, is returning this May.
Organised by Laois Chamber Alliance and Emo GAA, it has been confirmed that ‘Shine in Emo’ will be held on Saturday, May 20.
While last year’s contest was confined to clubs, this year’s event has been altered slightly to teams, opening it up to workplaces or groups of friends to take part.
Across a gruelling day of competition, which takes place in an arena in the centre of the tradeshow, there is a prize fund of €10,000 up for grabs.
On the trade show side, 120 exhibitors representing Laois businesses, from food producers and crafts, to professional services and retailers were in attendance last year.
There was also a fine selection of food options and children’s entertainment.
Speaking about this year’s event, Caroline Hofman, CEO Laois Chamber Alliance said:
“We are really looking forward to collaborating with Emo GAA again this year for this terrific event.
“The feedback from exhibitors, competitors, and visitors to the event last year were so positive with a huge appetite for Shine to return in 2023.
“We are delighted to be able to confirm it will be returning to Emo Court and Parklands, bigger and better than 2022!
Preparations are well underway, and we have a super team of volunteers involved again this year. We are also extremely grateful to have been granted LEADER funding for the event, and to have amazing sponsors and supporters on board.
Shine in Emo will be a super day out for all the family, with a range of trade stands exhibiting food, crafts, goods and services, showcasing the very best of everything Laois has to offer.
“We are so fortunate to be hosting this landmark event with the iconic and unique backdrop of Emo Court House.”
President of Laois Chamber Alliance, Yvonne McKeon, added: “Last summer’s inaugural Shine festival was a tremendous success, and Laois Chamber Alliance are delighted to again be participating partners.
“Shine is an opportunity to have a day out for all the family, and to delight in all that Laois has to offer.”
Chairperson of the Organising Committee, John Strong, said: “Shine 2023 is probably one of the best days out that a family will have in Laois this year.
“The day will be packed with entertainment while also giving you the opportunity to witness first hand the excellent products and services that Laois companies have to offer.
“We are delighted to have Finline Furniture back on board as our main sponsor and thanks to Finline Furniture and all of our sponsors with their help. We are delighted to announce that entry to attend the event is completely free!”
This year teams can enter our sports event on behalf of their business, college, school or club.
It’s an event that will bring the best of team spirit out in your group. Visit www.shineinemo.ie to download your event pack or contact Martin Crowley on 087 8181444 to enter your team for this fantastic event and be in with a chance of taking home part of the €10,000 prize fund
If you’re a business interested in exhibiting, contact the Laois Chamber Alliance office for more information – caroline@laoischamber.ie or telephone 085 2566522.
