The cut and thrust of fashion retail is never easy. There has been so much talk about big online businesses closing so it is very nice to be able to acknowledge new stores when they open, and when it is a wholly Irish-owned boutique, then better again.
The arrival of Covid-19 vaccines has given holidaymakers some hope of a break this year. But how is travel likely to take off, and what trends and tech will inform our future trips?
Any crystal ball-gazing carries a cruise ship-sized disclaimer, of course, but January is as good a time as any to give it a shot.
Here s a taste of what could be in store.
1. Bubble up
Who s in your bubble? Like bleisure or glamping in years gone by, expect to be sick of this word by the end of the year - but right now, it s everything.
Travel bubbles can be anything from small groups of family and friends renting villas together, to all-inclusive resorts, escorted group tours, intimate weddings, private transfers, retreats and even entire cruise ships.