The Experience Economy consists of businesses and a workforce that operate across multiple sectors in Ireland as well as encompassing organisations in the arts, cultural, sporting and heritage sectors.
It includes hospitality, retail, travel, food and drink, tourism, attractions and venues, entertainment, events and activity providers.
Formed in 2021, the purpose of the policy committee is to support Ibec’s Experience Economy campaign in further developing a contemporary understanding of the sector’s economic impact and its value in making Ireland a great place to live, work, invest and experience.
Ibec said there are 32,000 customer facing enterprises operating within the Experience Economy, with a further 100,000 jobs indirectly through the supply chain, services and suppliers.
Catherine Toolan is the managing director of Diageo Irish Brand Homes, a portfolio of visitor experiences, consisting of The Guinness Storehouse, the Guinness Open Gate Brewery, Roe & Co Distillery and Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny.
“My first request is for the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment to have strategic planning oversight for Ireland’s Experience Economy and responsibility for driving the delivery of overall strategy for this vital section of the economy,” she said today.
“This deliberate and co-ordinated action at the highest level of Government will ensure the sustainable and economic development of this key business economy across all regions of Ireland,” she added.
Sharon Higgins, Executive Director of Membership and Sectors at Ibec said that Ms Toolan brings a wealth of experience and a strong track record, with global leadership in brand experiences across three continents, including significant roles in the London and Beijing Olympic Games.
“Additionally, Catherine has been a pivotal member of the Experience Economy committee, driving key initiatives forward. We are confident that her leadership will guide us successfully into the next phase,” she added.
As Featured on RTE Â Monday, 16 Sep 2024Â
