NEXT month Dublin will become the meeting point for two of Europe’s strongest equestrian markets, as French and Irish professionals come together to forge new partnerships.

Business France, the trade arm of the French Embassy in Ireland, is launching a trade mission as a gateway for French companies to discover the Irish market, and Irish businesses are invited to take part.

A delegation of five French equine companies will visit Ireland from September 11th to 13th, for a packed programme of business meetings, networking and stud visits. Their trip will culminate in a day at the Irish Champions Festival at Leopardstown Racecourse.

So, where do you fit in?

If you are part of Ireland’s equestrian industry, then you’re invited to attend a Franco-Irish Equine Networking Afternoon, hosted at the French Ambassador’s residence in Ballsbridge, Dublin 4.

From 2pm onwards, you can attend the panel discussion, pitching session and drinks reception. Simply register by email to Nathalène Foubert (nathalene.foubert@businessfrance.fr), who will send you further details.

Following this sociable introduction to the Irish equestrian industry, the delegation plans to spend Friday visiting several yards, including the Irish National Stud and Gilltown Stud.

Working alongside Vickie Donlon (Horse Racing Ireland) and Finn O’Sullivan (justaskfinn.ie), Business France has developed an agenda that will give the French delegation an insider’s view of Ireland’s breeding and racing infrastructure.

As all good things must come to an end, their visit will conclude on Saturday with a day’s racing at Leopardstown, when the feature race is the Irish Champion Stakes.

The visitors will have a private lounge area, and are keen for readers of The Irish Field who can’t make the networking reception to pop in to meet them there.

The delegation

Annually, the French equestrian industry generates €10 billion, thanks to the diversity and innovation present across the sector. The French companies taking part represent a wide range of expertise, but let’s take a look at who exactly will be a part of the mission:

In alphabetical order, we start with Aravolte, a company which designs and manufactures high-performance equestrian clothing that combines technical fabrics with a sophisticated design. Their customers value the comfort, freedom of movement, and style of the apparel which meets the real-world needs of equestrian athletes.

Next up is Equiways, a company specialised in equine biosecurity who work with stud farms and yards to reduce disease risks through tailored protocols. Equiways arms their clients with practical tools to support horses’ health and welfare.

Dynavena produces premium horse feeds, with formulas which support performance, breeding, and overall well-being. Part of the Sopral Group, Dynavena is renowned for high-quality ingredients and a balanced nutritional approach.

If you’re a regular on the European circuit, you may be familiar with EHS Transport Services which provides international horse transport across Europe and beyond. Their team offers private charters, shared loads, and full customs support. Offering a safe and reliable service is their main priority, making them a trustworthy partner.

Last but not least, Novostable rounds off the French delegation with smart stable monitoring systems. This state-of-the-art technology tracks horse behaviour and health in real time, alerting staff to early signs of colic, foaling, or distress.

As the French delegation prepares their visit, the potential for a strong partnership between readers of The Irish Field and French equestrian industries becomes evident.

This trade mission is more than a three-day visit, it’s a springboard for long-term collaboration between two world-class equestrian industries. From cutting-edge technology to proven expertise, the French delegation brings opportunities worth exploring.

To meet the delegation during their visit, please email Nathalene Foubert (nathalene.foubert@businessfrance.fr). Please note, this is a trade-only event with limited space available. Interested participants are requested to register their interest for approval.