Ploughing Championships set to deliver food, family fun and showcase business success
Site owner Lisa O’Flaherty Grogan and her niece Katie O’Flaherty with exhibition supervisor Sean Byrne, site manager Tom Kelly, Anna May McHugh, Triona Connolly, site supervisor and PJ Lynam, NPA director on site at Screggan, Tullamore for the launch of this year’s National Ploughing Championships, which take place this week from 15th-17th September. Photo: Alf Harvey
The National Ploughing Championships is once again preparing to welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors for what promises to be three action-packed days this week celebrating Irish agriculture, innovation, food and family entertainment.
While ploughing competitions and farming demonstrations remain at the heart of the event, the championships have evolved into one of the largest outdoor exhibitions in Europe, attracting exhibitors, food producers, entrepreneurs and community organisations from across the country.
Each year, visitors travel from every county to experience the unique atmosphere, browse hundreds of exhibition stands and enjoy a packed programme of activities that continues to make the event one of the highlights of the Irish calendar.
For many visitors, the Food Village has become one of the biggest draws of the championships.
The area brings together some of Ireland's best-known food brands alongside smaller artisan producers, offering a wide range of products that showcase the quality and diversity of Irish food.
From handcrafted chocolates and specialty cheeses to gourmet burgers, fresh bakes, preserves and locally produced treats, there is something to satisfy every taste.
Visitors can sample products, meet producers and learn about the stories behind many of the businesses that have grown from small family enterprises into nationally recognised brands.
The Food Village also provides an important platform for emerging businesses looking to expand their reach and connect directly with new customers. For many producers, the championships represent one of the most valuable opportunities of the year to promote their products to a large and diverse audience.
As crowds make their way through the exhibition grounds, food stalls are expected to remain among the busiest areas on site throughout the three-day event.
Among the growing Irish businesses attracting attention this year is Oh My Cookies, which continues to expand its footprint following the opening of a new location in Waterford.
The company has built a loyal following through its range of freshly baked cookies, dessert creations and colourful social media presence. What began as a small venture has developed into a recognised Irish brand that continues to attract customers across the country.
The opening of the Waterford addition marks another milestone for the business and reflects increasing demand for its products throughout the south-east region.
Speaking about the expansion, the company has highlighted the importance of bringing its products to new communities, while maintaining the quality and customer experience that helped establish its reputation.
The National Ploughing Championships provides an ideal setting for businesses such as Oh My Cookies to engage directly with customers, introduce new products and build brand awareness among thousands of visitors.
With food traders traditionally enjoying strong footfall during the event, the championships offer an opportunity not only to generate sales but also to create lasting connections with customers who may become long-term supporters of local businesses.
