Review and Thank You – Annual Irish Publishers Conferece, Future Now 2024

The Annual Irish Publishers Conference Trade Day 2024, held at Dublin Castle in conjunction with the Dublin Book Festival, established itself as the premier event for publishers in Ireland.

This year, we expanded the conference by introducing one-on-one workshops in Copyright, Accessibility, and Audiobooks exclusively for our Publishing Ireland members. We proudly recorded a milestone attendance of 200 participants and secured the vital support of 16 dedicated sponsors, making this event a resounding success.

Throughout the day, industry experts delivered invaluable insights and engaged in discussions on the latest trends shaping the publishing landscape. Key topics included the impact of Artificial Intelligence in Publishing, presented by Sara Lloyd from Pan Macmillan, EDI with Gráinne O`Toole from Skein Press, Sustainability with Karina Stevens from Nosy Crow, and a critical panel discussion on the new European Accessibility Act with Lina Kouzi NCBI, Stacy Scott, Taylor and Francis Publishing, Will Awad, iAccessDigital and Simon Mellins, Simon Mellins Consulting.

The annual Irish Market BookScan report, expertly created by Sara Mulryan at Nielsen BookData, is a definitive source of industry insights. Jim Power delivered a compelling presentation on the results of a market survey commissioned by Publishing Ireland, which was centred on Irish publishers.

This year, students in the MA in Literature and Publishing had the opportunity to meet with recent graduates now working full-time in the publishing industry in Ireland. The meeting was led by Isabel Dwyer from Publishing Ireland, Órla Carr from Little Island, Enejda Nasaj and Liam Maguire from The Lilliput Press, Julia Pinka from The O’Brien Press, Megan Johnson from Poetry Ireland, and Joyce Dignam from Sandycove (Penguin Ireland). The group shared their experiences of transitioning into the publishing field after graduation, creating a valuable networking opportunity for graduates to connect with the new generation of publishers in Ireland.

Networking opportunities were abundant during tea and coffee breaks and the sponsored lunch, allowing delegates to connect meaningfully with one another. Each attendee left with a complimentary goody bag featuring a bespoke Publishing Ireland journal/notebook, further enhancing their experience at this exceptional event.

The day wrapped up with a successful Irish Books for Screen event featuring 12 publishers presenting their titles to over 40 movie industry professionals. With directors, producers, and screenwriters in attendance, there is a clear demand for diverse fiction and nonfiction stories. The film industry actively seeks fresh narratives, making this an exceptional opportunity for all involved.

We appreciate all the publishers who attended, as well as our speakers, sponsors, and exhibitors. Your participation made the day a tremendous success.

Check out our Gallery of images from the day: Click Here

Work has begun on our 2025 conference, so watch this space!

Thank You to our 2024 Sponsors and Exhibitors