The Island Escapes team proudly supported the Interceltic Business Forum, hosting talks and sponsoring the evening reception.

Held at Villa Marina and hosted by Business Isle of Man, the day was filled with inspiring talks and thought-provoking panels, discussing topics such as regenerative tourism, sustainable finance, and AI. We were delighted to host a tourism with purpose talk about how the company became B-Corp certified, and sit on a panel discussion on Tourism with purpose.

Annie Cowen and Tony Edwards from our Future Board and parent company, Sapphire Holidays, shared insights on how to be more considered throughout different areas of your business and what B-Corp means to us. Later, our Founder and Commercial Director, John Keggin, took to the stage alongside Simon Tregoning, Founder and Chair of Sapphire Holidays, and Jamie Miles, Founder and Managing Director of Anglesey Holiday Lettings, to discuss how supporting local communities sits at the heart of regenerative tourism.

Hon. Alf Cannan MHK, Chief Minister of the Isle of Man commented, ‘The Interceltic Business Forum is a powerful reminder that while our regions may be small in scale, we are strongest when we work together – to share expertise, to open new markets and to support businesses to become more innovative, resilient and sustainable.’

As the day centred around celebrating the Celtic nations and we had the privilege of hosting this on the Isle of Man, Island Escapes sponsored the evening reception at Noa Bakehouse. Following a day of meaningful conversations and valuable connections, the forum continued with an evening of food and drink, awards, talks, and networking.

In honour of celebrating our culture, March saw local businesses and chefs take part in the Manx menu. This event in the hospitality sector highlighted local ingredients, a creative take on local delicacies, excellent service, and community engagement. The evening reception allowed Business Isle of Man to present Manx Menu March winners with their trophies and show appreciation for all the amazing things they achieve. Guests were also treated to an inspiring talk from Helen Crosbie of Isle of Man Salt Co, who shared how she built her business around passion and purpose.

With live music from Scran and a feast of Manx delicacies from the Manx Menu winners, the evening became a vibrant celebration of Celtic culture, collaboration and connection.