FAQ's

All you need to know

FAQ's: FAQ

What is Pitch '24?

Pitch ’24 is an initiative, developed by Brown Thomas Arnotts, inviting Irish start-ups and entrepreneurs to pitch for a chance to be mentored by a team of experts in the world of retail and secure placement as part of the 2024 Arnotts Christmas Market and thereafter. Our ultimate Pitch ’24 winner will also secure a €10,000 business development fund.

Can anyone enter Pitch '24?

In order to meet criteria to enter, you must be a designer/ maker/ innovator/ entrepreneur in fashion, beauty, jewellery, lifestyle, food, circular goods or technology who has a product/range developed or a service proposition identified - Full entry requirement details are listed on our 'Criteria' page.

How do I enter?

Applications are open from Wednesday 1st May to Sunday 26th May. Apply here.

When is the closing date for entries?

Closing date for entries is Sunday 26th May 2024.

Is this open to International applicants?

Your business needs to be based in Ireland.

I have a great idea, but I don't have a product range, can I enter?

If your proposed product will be ready by July 2024, you are eligible to enter Pitch '24. If you have an innovative idea that you would like to discuss with Brown Thomas Arnotts, that isn't focused solely on a product, please email details to 'Pitch@arnotts.ie'.

My business isn't a new start-up, can I still apply?

Yes, small established companies can apply too

I have more than one business, can I enter more than once?

Yes if you are the owner of more than one business you may enter multiple times, however only one can be selected to progress to the next stage.

What is the prize?

Our shortlist of applicants will avail of masterclasses from experienced professionals in the world of retail along with the opportunity to have their product trade in the Arnotts Christmas Market, both in-store and online. Our ultimate winner will be announced in January '25 and will win a €10,000 business development fund.

What is the Arnotts Christmas Edit?

The Arnotts Christmas Market is a selection of brands and products curated for the Christmas gifting period which launches in November each year. This edit is made up of a wide range of brands across all categories which has a dedicated section both in-store and online. Winners will secure placement as part of the 2024 Christmas edit.

I have applied, when will I find out if I have been shortlisted?

Applicants who have made the shortlist will be contacted by Friday 7th June.

I have been shortlisted, what's next?

If you have been shortlisted, you will be contacted by our team to confirm a date to pitch your business to our panel of judges. Judges will review all proposals and five winners will be selected.

Who are the judges?

Our panel is made up of 4 judges, each of which have a diverse range of experience in the world of retail. Visit our 'Judges' page to find out more about our judges

How are applicants judged?

Applicants will be reviewed on the following areas:

Uniqueness, design, quality, make-up and execution of their product/ service
Demonstration in creating and nurturing a sustainable future for Arnotts Customers with their offering
Proven direct to consumer sales channels
The applicant’s vision for the future of their brand

I've been shortlisted, can I bring a team member to the pitch to the judges?

Yes up to 2 x team members can participate in the pitch to the judges.

How many winners are there?

There will be five finalists each of which will avail of masterclasses and secure placement in the Arnotts Christmas 2024 edit. We will have one ultimate winner who will secure the €10,000 business development fund.

How do I stay up to date on Pitch '24?

You can check out the Arnotts social channels along with pitch.arnotts.ie to stay up to date on all things Pitch '24.