Movers & Shakers at SPADE

This month, we’re thrilled to celebrate Dae Ireland, who have followed this very journey from day one.

Conor founded Dae in 2021, originally crafting dairy‑free ice‑cream for the retail market. Over the last couple of years, Dae has shifted focus to producing açaí foodservice products—an area that has taken off in a big way. As such, Conor is now leaving SPADE and moving to his own larger unit where he will be expanding his range of foodservice product, adding a new açaí retail product, and launching into the UK market.

Conor has been a huge champion of the supports provided by LEO and Enterprise Ireland.
“They have given us support from day one. We were accepted onto the Food Works accelerator and that pretty much taught me everything that I know about how to run a business,” he said.

“We came out of that programme with a direction, knowing how to run a business, and branding that could go international.”

Dae embody exactly what SPADE is all about: growth, ambition, and the courage to keep moving forward. Conor’s story is a reminder of what’s possible when passion meets the right support at the right time….and of course a fantastic product!

We’re wishing Conor the very best in his new kitchen—and we want to acknowledge how generous he has always been with his time, advice, and encouragement for SPADE businesses at earlier stages. A true inspiration within our community.

Follow: https://www.instagram.com/dae.ireland/

Find out more:https://daeacai.ie/

Lan of Fleur de Lan: Rising Star

Another exciting move is just on the horizon—Lan, of Fleur de Lan, is stepping out of the Shared Kitchen and into her very own individual kitchen at SPADE!

Lan has had a phenomenal year, winning multiple awards for her exquisite product range, including accolades from Blas na hÉireann, Irish Quality Food and Drink, and Great Taste. Her brand has blossomed from local favourite to retail success, with products now available in stores and even reaching customers in the UK.

Her journey is a masterclass in making the most of every opportunity. Lan completed Food Starter, Food Academy, and has actively engaged with supports from LEO, Dublin Food Chain, and SPADE—never missing a chance to learn, connect, and grow.

We’re so proud to see her take this next step, and we can’t wait to see what the coming years bring for Fleur de Lan.