Over 130 leaders from County Kerry’s tourism, enterprise, and community sectors gathered today to harness the potential of the Kerry Place Brand. This significant event, hosted in partnership with the Tech Industry Alliance, Kerry Tourism Industry Federation, Kerry County Council, Kerry Chamber Network, and Kerry ETB, brought together business, tourism, and community leaders to advance a shared vision for Kerry’s economic growth and prosperity.
The Kerry Place Brand is built on four key pillars: Shaped by Landscape, Welcoming Community, Entrepreneurial Edge, and Creative in Character – qualities that define Kerry’s unique strengths. Attendees explored how these pillars will help Kerry tell a cohesive story that showcases the county as a vibrant place to visit, live, work, study, and invest.
Sean Ryan, Chairperson of Aspen Grove and a Board Member of the Tech Industry Alliance, spoke on the value of this unified strategy: “This brand enables us to channel Kerry’s strengths across all industries. By working together, we can show that Kerry is more than just a beautiful county – it’s a place where business, innovation, and community thrive side by side, creating new opportunities for all.”
Pat O'Leary, Chairperson of the Kerry Tourism Industry Federation, highlighted the brand’s potential impact: “The Kerry Brand allows us to share our story in a way that reflects the richness and diversity of the entire county. With this shared identity, we can showcase Kerry’s welcoming spirit, stunning landscapes, and dynamic enterprise scene, setting us apart in Ireland and beyond.”
Niamh O'Sullivan of Kerry County Council added, “This brand belongs to everyone in Kerry. It captures who we are and what we can achieve together, inviting our communities, businesses, and visitors to be part of Kerry’s story. By embracing this brand, we are setting a path for growth, collaboration, and a stronger sense of pride across the county.”
Moderated by Dr. Breda O'Dwyer of MTU, founder of the Cantillon Conference and Academy, the event featured a panel of industry leaders from Kerry's enterprise and tourism sectors. Panellists included Pat O'Leary, Chairperson of the Kerry Tourism Industry Federation; Owen Moore, Head of Pharma Manufacturing at Astellas' Tralee Plant; Colette O’Connor, CEO of Tralee Chamber Alliance; Sean Ryan, Chairperson of Aspen Grove; and Patrick Doyle, South West Regional Manager of the IDA Ireland. Together, they shared insights on how Kerry’s new place brand can drive economic and tourism growth.
The evening featured sessions on best practices for engaging with the Kerry Brand, including the launch of a new free Digital Marketing Course by Kerry ETB to support local enterprises. Attendees left with a shared commitment to activate the Kerry Brand in ways that align with the county’s vision for the future, working together to create a legacy of growth, resilience, and opportunity.
For more information on the Kerry Place Brand and how to get involved, please visit https://www.discoverkerry.com/brand-toolkits/
