FRENCH IRELAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: FICC Newsletter Summer 2026

Newsletter Summer 2026

Summer Newsletter 2026

Dear FICC Members,

As we enter the second half of 2026, I am delighted to welcome you to our Summer Newsletter and to share the exciting developments taking place across our Chamber community.

This edition reflects the continued growth and momentum of the France Ireland Chamber of Commerce. I am pleased to announce that five new members have joined us in recent months: Briffa, DP Training, Smith Vehicule Solutions, The Hustle Factory & YUS Partners.

We are also proud to welcome Colas as a new Patron Member. As a leading player in transport infrastructure and sustainable mobility, Colas' commitment to innovation and long-term investment aligns strongly with the values of our Chamber. We look forward to working closely with the Colas team and to their active involvement in our activities.

Looking ahead, preparations are well underway with our partner NetworkIrlande for the flagship event of the year: the Ireland France Business Awards. The awards take place on 26^th November in Paris and will once again bring together business leaders, entrepreneurs and decision-makers to celebrate the outstanding achievements of companies that strengthen the economic ties between France and Ireland. The “Call for Applications” is live and the deadline date for receiving applications is Wednesday 16^th September.

We are equally delighted to continue our longstanding partnership with Brittany Ferries and in collaboration with Cork Chamber. We look forward to meeting many of you for the infamous Brittany Ferries Lunch on board the iconic Pont-Aven on Saturday 12^th September.

The Chamber remains committed to creating opportunities for networking, knowledge-sharing and collaboration through our events, working groups, services and member initiatives. The enthusiasm and engagement of our members continues to drive everything we do, and for that, I would like to extend my sincere thanks.

I hope you enjoy this summer edition of the newsletter.

Bonne lecture et bel été à toutes et à tous.

Cliona McGowan
Director / Directrice Générale

WELCOME TO COLAS, NEW FICC PATRON

Colas is one of Ireland's leading transport infrastructure specialists, delivering innovative road maintenance and asset management solutions that support economic growth, connectivity and community development nationwide. Established in 1925 as Irish Cold Bitumen Ltd., the company recently celebrated 100 years of service and has become a trusted partner to Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), the Department of Transport, local authorities and private sector clients.

As part of the global Colas Group, Colas in Ireland combines local knowledge with international expertise to deliver high-quality, sustainable infrastructure solutions. Over the past century, the company has played a significant role in the development and maintenance of Ireland's national, regional and local road networks, helping to create safer, more efficient and more resilient transport connections across the country.

Through its specialist businesses, Colas provides to Ireland a fully integrated service spanning materials manufacturing, road surfacing, pavement preservation, motorway operations and maintenance, temporary traffic management and specialist bitumen technologies. The company is recognised for its commitment to innovation, operational excellence and sustainability, continually investing in advanced technologies, skilled people and low-carbon solutions.

LEARNING EXPEDITION TO THE PORT OF CHERBOURG (FRANCE) - AUTUMN 2026

Join the France Ireland Chamber of Commerce for an exclusive Learning Expedition to the Port of Cherbourg from 13–15 October 2026.

Discover one of France's leading maritime hubs, meet key industry stakeholders, explore cross-Channel trade and energy transition projects, and identify new business opportunities between Ireland and Normandy. Designed for senior decision-makers, this immersive programme combines strategic insights, networking and tailored site visits.

IFBA 2026 - CALL FOR APPLICATIONS

Applications are now open for the Ireland France Business Awards 2026, celebrating companies making an outstanding contribution to trade and investment between Ireland and France. This year’s categories include Best Irish Company in France, Best French Company in Ireland, and Franco-Irish Business Newcomer of the Year.

The Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner will take place at Bridge Pont Alexandre III in Paris on Thursday 26th November 2026. Applications close on Wednesday 16th September at 12 noon.

Apply now and showcase your company’s Franco-Irish success story.