Driving the future of Ireland’s interiors industry

The contract interiors industry sector is a dynamic and evolving industry, playing a crucial role in shaping homes, businesses, and commercial spaces across the country. From bespoke joinery to large-scale contract furniture manufacturing, companies in this field have long been recognised for their craftsmanship, innovation, and ability to create high-quality interior solutions. However, in an increasingly competitive global market, businesses must continuously adapt and seek new ways to grow, innovate, and collaborate.

This is where the Irish Wood and Interiors Network (IWIN) comes in. Established to support and connect companies involved in the design and manufacture of kitchens, architectural joinery, contract furniture, bespoke interior solutions, commercial interiors, and wood-based products, IWIN provides a powerful platform for businesses to thrive through Advanced Manufacturing, Business Development, and Collaboration.

Today, with over 100 members, IWIN stands as the largest network of contract interior companies in Ireland and one of the few of its kind in Europe. Its primary mission is to empower its members by helping them embrace advanced manufacturing, expand into new domestic and international markets, and harness the strength of collective collaboration. By uniting businesses under a common purpose, IWIN has become a driving force in Ireland’s built environment, positioning its members as leaders in a competitive and ever-changing industry.

In this article, we explore IWIN’s journey — from its founding and early growth to its impact on the industry and vision for the future.

How it all began

The idea for a representative body for Ireland’s wood manufacturing and interiors sector emerged in 2018, when Bill Vernon and Dr. Dermot O’Donovan, Head of the Department of Creative Education at Atlantic Technological University (ATU), recognised the need for greater industry support and visibility at regional, national, and international levels. With decades of experience in the sector, Vernon was deeply passionate about its future and believed that the lack of formal representation was leading to missed opportunities in funding, skills development, collaboration, and mentorship.

Recognising the urgency of the situation, Dr. O’Donovan reached out to Clare Hurley from Regional Skills West, and together they organised a pivotal meeting in Galway in 2018. This gathering brought together 10-15 companies and lecturers from ATU Connemara to conduct a skills audit and discuss the formation of a representative industry body. 

The momentum from this meeting led to the formation of the Irish Wood and Furniture Manufacturing Network (IWFMN) – later to be renamed Irish Wood and Interiors Network (IWIN) in 2021, with its first Steering Committee established that same year. 

This founding group included Stuart Montgomery (Thomas Montgomery Furniture), Bill Vernon (Furniture Consultant), David Tracey (Sisk), Aodh O’Donnell (O’Donnell Furniture), Eoin Ryan (Galtee Group), Katherine O’Sullivan (O’Donnell Furniture), Ronan Haslette (Merenda), and Michael Clarke (Walls to Workstations).

From left: Aodh O’Donnell, Dave Treacy, Clare Hurley, Stuart Montgomery, Bill Vernon, Minister Heather Humphreys, Dr Dermot O’Donovan, Ronan Haslette, Michael Clarke, Katherine O’Sullivan

Building momentum and early achievements

From the outset, IWIN set clear priorities:

• Collecting industry data on employment, turnover, and exports.
• Raising awareness among policymakers and funding bodies.
• Creating collaboration opportunities within the sector.
• Building trust among members to strengthen industry connections.

To drive engagement, IWIN organised national conferences, first in Galway (2018) and later in Dublin (2019). These events attracted significant interest from industry stakeholders, and sponsorship from companies such as SISK Group and Flannagan Fittings provided crucial credibility and support. 

The network also facilitated training and networking events at member companies, while ATU Connemara conducted an industry-wide skills audit to identify future workforce needs.

Recognising the importance of international expansion, Bill Vernon used his extensive European connections to encourage members to explore global opportunities. This effort led to IWIN joining the European Furniture Industries Confederation (EFIC), which gave members access to critical insights into European legislation and policy developments affecting the sector.

When the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted business operations in 2020, IWIN responded swiftly by offering online training, knowledge-sharing, and support to help members navigate the crisis.

Overcoming challenges and securing future growth

Despite its early success, IWIN faced the challenge of long-term financial sustainability and dedicated human resources. Various funding avenues were explored, and the network secured support for a Circular Economy project from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Shortly after, a successful pitch was made to Enterprise Ireland under the Regional Enterprise Development Fund, ensuring the network’s ability to continue supporting the sector.

The network’s evolution was not without challenges, but meaningful collaborations, friendships, and progress also marked it. A defining success was how companies within the network began working together, uncovering new innovation and shared development opportunities.

However, along the way, the sector lost two pivotal figures instrumental in shaping the network. David Tracey, known for his generosity and unwavering passion for the industry, passed away unexpectedly, leaving a lasting impact on those who worked alongside him. Bill Vernon, a mentor and guiding force for so many, also passed away far too soon. His vast knowledge, experience, and dedication to the network played a foundational role in its success. The legacy of both men continues to inspire the industry as IWIN builds on their vision for a stronger, more collaborative future.

Early growth and key milestones

With a strong foundation in place, the Irish Wood and Interiors Network (IWIN) quickly moved from its initial formation into a phase of rapid expansion and strategic development. The focus during these years was on securing funding, enhancing industry collaboration, supporting innovation, and strengthening the network’s position within both domestic and international markets.

Securing major funding and strengthening regional support

One of the most significant milestones came with IWIN’s successful application for funding through the Border Enterprise Development Fund (BEDF). This effort, led by Bill Vernon, was strongly supported by Minister Heather Humphreys, resulting in a €312,000 grant to enhance support for member companies in the border region. A key component of this funding was the hiring of a dedicated project manager to coordinate and develop network activities, ensuring companies benefited from structured guidance and sectoral support.

In May 2021, Gareth Sherry, formerly of Sherry Furniture, was appointed to this role. Under his leadership, network engagement increased, and new initiatives were introduced to enhance collaboration and industry growth. His impact was widely recognised, leading to his appointment as national manager of IWIN in August 2024. His role continues to be supported by Enterprise Ireland through the Regional Technology Cluster Fund, reinforcing the network’s long-term commitment to business development and advanced manufacturing support.

Driving engagement through national and international initiatives

Since 2021, IWIN has actively pursued a range of initiatives to increase engagement and promote industry-wide collaboration. Some of the key events and milestones include:

• National Conference on Innovation (Dún Laoghaire, 2021) – A landmark event where Martin McVicar, founder of Combilift, delivered the keynote address, focusing on innovation, automation, and future-proofing the sector.
• London Build Show (November 2023) – A collaborative exhibition showcasing IWIN members to an international audience, strengthening market exposure and industry partnerships.
• Regional training events – Multiple workshops and training sessions organised across Ireland to address key challenges, including skills development, technology adoption, and business growth strategies.
• Social networking days – A mix of formal and informal networking events, including golf days and industry meet-ups, which helped develop new relationships and strengthen business-to-business collaborations.
• Peer-to-peer meetups – A focused periodic meeting in member factories where four to six companies attend to discuss specific technical issues and share industry best practices.

These activities have not only strengthened existing business relationships but also facilitated new partnerships, leading to significant supply chain collaborations and even major acquisitions within the sector.

Expert-led consulting for business growth

In addition to networking and training events, IWIN has played a critical role in connecting member companies with targeted expert industry consultants to support their operational excellence, strategic management planning, and implementation. These expert-led engagements help businesses streamline operations, improve efficiencies, and develop long-term growth strategies. Many of these consultancy services are part-funded through agency grant aid. Over 50 members have availed of this consulting support in some form or another in the last three years alone.

Expanding insights through direct member engagement

One of the most impactful developments in recent years has been IWIN’s focus on direct engagement with member companies. In his current role, Gareth Sherry is undertaking a nationwide tour, visiting every relevant company in the contract interiors sector. This hands-on approach involves walking the workshop floors, engaging in in-depth discussions with owner-managers, and gaining first-hand insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

Launching ‘Irish Contract Interiors’ – a dedicated industry journal

A major milestone in IWIN’s development has been the creation of the Irish Contract Interiors publication, which aims to elevate the visibility of the contract interiors sector. IWIN developed the concept and engaged John Legg and Lisa Williams from Media 66 to produce and publish it, recognising the need for a high-quality, industry-focused journal.

This publication provides a multi-faceted platform to benefit the industry in several key ways:

• Showcasing excellence – featuring outstanding projects and craftsmanship from member companies, reinforcing Ireland’s reputation for high-quality interior solutions.
• Strengthening the Built Supply Chain – deepening connections across the entire project ecosystem, from end clients to main contractors, architects, interior designers, subcontractors, and manufacturers, creating better industry-wide awareness of who does what best.
• Driving recruitment & talent attraction – Serving as a window into the industry for school leavers and college graduates, demonstrating the sector’s dynamism, innovation, and career potential.
• Providing an industry news & knowledge hub – Keeping contract interior businesses informed on trends, developments, and best practices.
• Promoting ‘Brand Ireland’ Internationally – Positioning Ireland’s contract interiors industry as a recognised leader on the international stage, highlighting its capability to deliver high-quality projects worldwide.

By launching this professionally printed and widely circulated journal, IWIN has provided a tangible resource that strengthens industry identity and actively supports business growth, recruitment, and global recognition.

Expert steering board and future planning

To guide IWIN’s future direction, a dedicated steering board of industry leaders provides ongoing expertise and strategic insight. The current steering committee includes:

• Michael Clarke (Walls to Workstations)
• Katherine O’Sullivan (O’Donnell Furniture)
• Aodh O’Donnell  (O’Donnell Furniture)
• Eoin Ryan (The Galtee Group)
• Paul Leamy (ATU Connemara)
• Cormac Sherry (Riverbank Components)
• Terry Coleman (Ambicell Lighting)
• Simon Dennehy (Perch)
• Simon O’Keefe (Aspire)
• Catherine Cullen (Maginn Machinery) (new member)
• Paul Leonard (Johnson Fitout) (new member)

This combination of industry feedback and expert guidance ensures that IWIN continues to deliver targeted, impactful, and relevant support to its members. By aligning its initiatives with the most pressing industry challenges and opportunities, IWIN is shaping a stronger, more innovative future for the Irish wood and interiors sector.

Future vision and continued growth

As the Irish Wood and Interiors Network (IWIN) looks to the future, its focus remains on driving industry growth, strengthening collaboration, and supporting members in overcoming key challenges. With the sector evolving rapidly due to technological advancements, sustainability requirements, and global market opportunities, IWIN is committed to delivering impactful initiatives that will shape the future of the industry.

Dedicated industry recruitment and training platform

One of IWIN’s most ambitious upcoming projects is the creation of a dedicated recruitment and training platform, seamlessly integrated with the IWIN.ie website. This platform will serve as a one-stop shop for members’ recruitment and staff training needs, ensuring that companies can easily attract and develop the right talent.

Key features of the platform include:

• Industry-focused job listings – Members will be able to post job vacancies in an industry-specific environment, while roles will also be shared on major job boards for wider reach.
• Candidate-friendly access – Prospective employees will have a clear and centralised view of all available roles, making it easier for them to explore career opportunities within the sector.
• Industry showcase with video content – The platform will feature dynamic video content, presenting the contract interiors sector as an exciting and rewarding place to build a career.
• Targeted promotion in key feeder colleges – The recruitment portal will be actively promoted in schools, colleges, and training centres, ensuring students and graduates see the career potential within the industry.
• Integrated training hub – A dedicated training section will provide easy access to industry-relevant upskilling programmes, including courses from machinery suppliers, micro-credentials from colleges, and training from education and training boards.

This platform will be crucial in solving recruitment challenges, attracting new talent, and upskilling existing staff.

Expanding international growth through trade missions and exhibitions

Given the limitations of the domestic market, international expansion is a key strategic priority for IWIN and its members. To support this, the network is developing a series of trade missions and collaborative exhibition opportunities to help companies break into export markets.

Interzum and Ligna are on the agenda this year

Planned initiatives include:

• Trade missions to Europe, the Middle East, and the US – These market exploration trips will provide members with access to potential clients, industry tours, local research, and expert insights, enabling them to assess the feasibility of expanding their exports.
• Collaborative international exhibitions – For companies further along in their export journey, IWIN aims to simplify international exhibiting by facilitating group exhibition spaces, reducing costs through cluster funding, and providing strategic support to maximise trade show impact.

By taking a structured and collaborative approach to exporting, IWIN will help members scale beyond Ireland, opening doors to new business opportunities in high-potential international markets.

Strengthening industry ties through a shared island approach

To date, activity in the contract interiors industry between Ireland and Northern Ireland has been fragmented. IWIN is committed to addressing this and actively reaching out to companies north of the border to encourage stronger collaboration with their southern counterparts.

Brexit has placed the entire island of Ireland in a unique trading position, presenting new opportunities for closer cooperation and enhanced supply chain integration when engaging with European and US markets. As businesses navigate this evolving landscape, IWIN will work to:

• Facilitate cross-border engagement to improve collaboration between Irish and Northern Irish manufacturers and contractors.
• Highlight shared advantages in international trade, recognising that Brand Ireland is seen as a single, unified entity in global markets — something the industry must leverage more effectively.
• Strengthen supply chain resilience, ensuring that businesses across the island can work together more seamlessly to improve competitiveness and export readiness.

By encouraging deeper industry connections across the island, IWIN aims to unlock new growth opportunities, enhance trade efficiencies, and build a stronger, more unified contract interiors sector for international success.

Supporting companies in ESG compliance

As Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) regulations become embedded across global supply chains, IWIN will play a key role in helping members navigate and comply with these evolving requirements. The network will focus on:

• Raising awareness of ESG legislation and its impact on the wood and interiors sector.
• Providing expert guidance on compliance strategies.
• Facilitating workshops and training sessions to help businesses integrate sustainable practices into their operations.

By ensuring that members are well-prepared for ESG requirements, IWIN will enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of Irish manufacturers in both domestic and international markets.

Continued support for manufacturing excellence & strategic growth

IWIN will continue its successful approach of connecting member companies with expert consultants to support manufacturing efficiency, business strategy, and operational excellence. Through these tailored consultancy engagements, businesses will receive:

• Guidance on advanced manufacturing techniques to improve efficiency and output.
• Strategic planning support to drive sustainable growth.
• Access to agency-backed funding where applicable, helping companies implement changes with financial assistance.

By leveraging industry expertise and securing targeted support, IWIN ensures that members remain competitive, innovative, and equipped for long-term success.

Shaping the future of the Irish Wood and Interiors sector

With a strong focus on talent development, international expansion, cross-border collaboration, ESG compliance, and manufacturing excellence, IWIN is laying the groundwork for the next phase of industry growth. By continuing to connect, support, and advocate for its members, the network will ensure that the Irish wood and interiors sector thrives in the years to come — both at home and on the global stage.

And all the while, IWIN will continue to promote collaboration and networking through frequent social and training events, giving members ample opportunities to connect with each other, share vital industry knowledge, and ignite key industry relationships that pave the way for stronger supply chain integration.

Join your network – be part of IWIN

IWIN is inviting all groups within the Contract Interiors Industry to join its growing network — whether you are a manufacturer, fit-out company, architect, interior designer, main contractor, or developer, IWIN has key supports tailored for you.

If you are interested in becoming part of this thriving, forward-thinking industry network, contact Gareth at [email protected] or visit www.iwin.ie/join-iwin to find out more. As the old African proverb says: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

Join IWIN today, and let’s build a stronger industry—together.

www.iwin.ie