Author: Sam Allcock

Introduction In recent years, the demand for affordable and sustainable technology has grown exponentially. Founded in 2016, has quickly become a household name in Europe for buying and selling refurbished iPhones. This article explores Swappie’s journey, its business model, and how it’s making an impact in the tech and sustainability sectors. What Is Swappie? The platform offers customers the opportunity to buy high-quality, pre-owned smartphones at competitive prices. By focusing solely on iPhones, the company has established itself as an expert in Apple’s ecosystem, ensuring top-notch quality and customer satisfaction. How Does Swappie Work? Swappie operates through a straightforward three-step…

And Still! Katie Taylor continues to reign as Ireland’s most admired athlete, claiming the coveted title for an impressive eighth consecutive year. The Bray native remains a national icon, with 15% of the public vote in the annual Teneo Sport and Sponsorship Index (TSSI). Her enduring popularity is cemented by a stellar year, highlighted by her triumph over Amanda Serrano in Texas, where she retained her status as the undisputed lightweight champion. Boxing Leads the Way for Ireland’s Sporting Success Taylor’s achievements aren’t just individual accolades. The Irish boxing team contributed significantly to the country’s success at the Paris Olympics,…

Severe weather conditions are causing significant disruption across Northern Ireland, particularly affecting Ireland ferry services and travel ahead of the busy Christmas weekend. The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for strong winds and wintry showers, with gusts between 50-60mph (80-95km/h) expected throughout Saturday and Sunday, and stronger winds forecast for coastal and high-ground areas. Ferry services between Larne and Cairnryan have been heavily impacted. P&O Ferries announced the cancellation of all sailings from 20:00 GMT on Saturday until 20:00 on Sunday due to adverse weather conditions. Stena Line also reported disruptions, cancelling several crossings between Belfast and Cairnryan.…

Northern Ireland’s sporting community has received a significant boost with the announcement of a £1.2 million investment aimed at redeveloping the Mid Ulster Sports Arena. The funding, provided through Sport NI’s National Lottery-funded Multi-Facility Fund, is set to revolutionise the facility with modern upgrades, ensuring it meets the needs of athletes and the local community alike. The redevelopment plan includes the construction of an eight-lane athletics track that meets Track Mark accreditation standards and a cutting-edge FIFA-approved 3G synthetic pitch. Additional enhancements such as floodlighting, fencing, and essential amenities will further elevate the arena’s offerings. Driving Community Engagement in Sports…

Ireland, often celebrated for its stunning landscapes and rich culture, is a thriving hub for international business. Thanks to favourable tax laws, global corporations have established their European headquarters here, creating a high demand for efficient travel solutions. Private aviation in Ireland has become indispensable for business leaders seeking to save time and enhance productivity, offering a competitive edge in the fast-paced corporate world. Strategic Location and Unmatched Connectivity Ireland’s position as a gateway between Europe and North America makes it ideal for businesses requiring seamless travel. Private jets offer direct flights, bypassing the delays and layovers associated with commercial…

Ireland’s thriving business landscape continues to attract top talent across various industries. This month, significant new business appointments were announced in the legal, hospitality, IT, energy, and real estate sectors. These roles highlight the country’s dynamic professional environment and its commitment to fostering leadership and innovation. Legal Sector: Whitney Moore Welcomes New Chair Emma Richmond, managing partner at Dublin-based law firm Whitney Moore, has taken on the role of chair for the European Leadership Group under Meritas, a global alliance of independent law firms. Emma succeeds Jonathan Polin of Howard Kennedy LLP, London, and aims to advance collaboration among Meritas…

Charity shops are transforming perceptions of sustainable fashion, offering stylish and affordable alternatives that benefit both people and the planet. Oxfam Ireland’s superstore in Holywood is leading this movement, combining eco-conscious shopping with community support and global aid initiatives. Oxfam has partnered with local photographer Collette Creative to challenge stereotypes about second-hand clothing. A recent photoshoot, featuring TikTok influencer Emma Thompson, singer-songwriter Travis Gilbert, and Miss Northern Ireland entrant Coleen Marine, showcases high-end festive outfits available at the Holywood store. Captured at the luxurious Culloden Hotel, the campaign underscores that second-hand doesn’t mean second-rate. Tackling the Environmental Cost of Fashion…

Ireland, famed for its lush green landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and rich cultural heritage, is a destination like no other. For travellers dreaming of exploring the Emerald Isle but unsure where to begin, Laurie Calahan and her company, My Ireland Adventures, provide expertly tailored tours that bring the magic of Ireland to life. Falling in Love with Ireland Laurie’s connection to Ireland began on her first trip with her husband, where she instantly fell in love with the country’s charm. Inspired by that experience, she co-founded My Ireland Adventures to share her passion with others. Focusing primarily on Southern Ireland, with…

Karen Koster, the beloved host of Ireland AM, captivated viewers with her stunning fashion choice during a recent live broadcast. Filling in for regular host Alan Hughes, who is busy with a Christmas panto in Dublin, Karen showcased her impeccable style in a beautiful dress from the renowned Irish brand, Divine. This morning, the 43-year-old presenter graced the Virgin Media studio in a teal skater dress that exuded elegance and festive charm. The dress featured delightful details, including ruffled cuffs, flowy sleeves, and a pleated skirt that added a touch of movement to her look. The standout feature was a…

In a surprising turn of events, the recent Irish elections have seen mainstream parties retain power despite a general anti-incumbent trend observed across Europe. Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, the two leading parties in the outgoing coalition, fell just two seats short of a majority but are expected to secure the necessary votes from independent candidates to form a new government. Meanwhile, the Greens suffered a significant setback, holding only one seat, while anti-immigration candidates saw little success. Although technology policy was not a prominent electoral issue, it is poised to become a priority for the incoming government. Ireland faces…