Design & Crafts Council Ireland (DCCI) is delighted to announce a new collaboration with Aberston, bringing together two organisations committed to championing Irish craft, supporting independent makers, and connecting retailers with meaningful, design-led products.
This collaboration marks an exciting step forward in bridging contemporary craft with modern retail. Working together, DCCI and Aberston will increase visibility for Irish makers, simplify their entry into retail markets, and help independent retailers discover authentic, story rich products that resonate with today’s conscious consumers.
Supporting Ireland’s Creative Economy
As the national agency for craft and design in Ireland, DCCI plays a vital role in nurturing creativity, safeguarding heritage craft and supporting makers across the country. Aberston’s curated wholesale platform complements this mission by giving retailers simple access to exceptional craft, both Irish and international, supported by flexible wholesale terms and a straightforward buying experience.
Aberston also offers a thoughtfully curated digital platform designed to make it easier for independent retailers to discover and stock high quality, small batch products. The platform’s focus on craftsmanship, creativity and authenticity aligns closely with DCCI’s commitment to elevating Irish makers and designers.
Through this collaboration, DCCI members will benefit from:
• Increased exposure to independent retail buyers across Ireland, the UK, Europe and beyond
• Access to a maker friendly platform with a focus on quality and curation
• An exclusive reduced commission rate
• Visibility through featured collections, storytelling campaigns and promotional opportunities throughout the year
“This collaboration feels like a natural fit,” says Djamel Benziane, Founder of Aberston. “DCCI has long been at the forefront of elevating Irish craft, and at Aberston, we are focused on making it easier for independent retailers to discover, source and share those stories with their customers. Together, we want to celebrate what makes craft special and help it thrive in modern retail spaces.”
What This Collaboration Means
As part of the collaboration, Aberston will feature selected DCCI supported members on the platform, spotlighting their stories and craftsmanship through curated collections, independent retail focused content and community building initiatives. The collaboration will also include cobranded campaigns, trade visibility opportunities and educational resources designed to support both members and retailers.
“We are delighted to collaborate with Aberston, a platform that shares our values of creativity, quality and craft preservation,” says Emma Dowling, Head of Commercial at DCCI. “This collaboration helps Irish makers reach new retail audiences and reinforces the importance of craft in Ireland’s cultural and economic landscape.”
The Right Time for Craft
With independent retailers increasingly seeking more meaningful and sustainable product offerings, this collaboration creates real value for both sides of the craft economy, the makers who create and the retailers who showcase their work. These values are also central to DCCI’s Made Local campaign which continues to resonate with consumers across the country.
Independent retailers interested in joining the Aberston community can find more information at www.aberston.com.
About Aberston
Aberston is a curated wholesale platform connecting independent retailers with exceptional Irish and international craft makers. Built for the modern retail landscape, Aberston simplifies sourcing by offering retailers access to thoughtfully designed, story-rich products backed by flexible trade terms and streamlined logistics. Championing creativity, craftsmanship, and conscious retail, Aberston empowers small businesses to stand out with unique, high-quality collections that customers love and remember.
About Design & Crafts Council Ireland (DCCI)
Design & Crafts Council Ireland is the national agency for the commercial development of Irish craft and design. DCCI supports makers through training, funding, market access, and advocacy, whilst promoting the value of Irish craft both at home and internationally.
Aberston | Design & Crafts Council Ireland
Aberston and Design & Crafts Council Ireland (DCCI) are collaborating to help Irish makers connect with verified retailers. Joining Aberston does not mean you are signing up for DCCI membership.
