Kilkenny Design reports 13% turnover growth

The group reported turnover of €36.33m for the 12 months to the end of January, up 12.9% or more than €4m from the €32.17m recorded in 2025.

Operating profit rose by almost 29% to €1.73m, up from €1.34m a year earlier, while profit before tax increased from €1.28m to €1.5m.

Profit after tax, dividends, and exceptional items stood at €1.23m, compared with €1.11m in the previous year.

During the year, Kilkenny Design invested in technology, automation, artificial intelligence, and employment, with staff numbers increasing by 12% to 241.

The group launched both its New Irish Energy campaign and the inaugural Kilkenny Design Makers’ Academy, developed in partnership with the Local Enterprise Offices.

The initiatives form part of the retailer’s wider commitment to championing Irish creativity, supporting emerging talent and helping makers develop the commercial skills and opportunities required to grow their businesses.

"These results demonstrate the strength and resilience of the business, with continued growth in both turnover and profitability. Importantly, we are achieving that growth while continuing to invest in the areas we believe will shape the future of Kilkenny Design," said Evelyn Moynihan, chief executive of Kilkenny Design.

"Our commitment to Irish design and craftsmanship remains at the heart of the business. Through initiatives such as the Makers’ Academy, we want to help identify and develop the next generation of Irish creative businesses, giving emerging makers access to practical commercial expertise, new customers and opportunities to grow.

"At the same time, we are investing in technology, automation, and our people to make the business more efficient, agile, and responsive to our customers. That combination of commercial discipline, innovation, and continued investment in Irish creativity gives us a strong platform for the next phase of growth."

The group ended the financial year with €4.07m in cash and cash equivalents, up from €3m a year earlier.

It also successfully restructured its debt arrangements during the period, strengthening its funding position and providing greater financial flexibility.

Looking ahead, Kilkenny Design plans to continue investing across customer engagement, digital capabilities, automation, artificial intelligence, operational efficiency and strategic growth opportunities.

Kilkenny Design now has 20 retail outlets nationwide.

* This article was originally published on BusinessPlus.ie.