IRAC 2026 Exhibition – A resounding success

IRAC2026
IRI Committee members: (l to r) Johnny Ryan, Crossflow; Liam Kirwan, Daikin; Ruth Gill, Crystal Air; Margaret Rafter (President), Mitsubishi Electric; Andrew Dunwoody, Ango Irish Refrigeration; and Jeff Aherne, EVHACS.
IRAC 2026

The refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump industry converged on the Green Isle Hotel in Dublin yesterday, Thursday, 16 April, for the Refrigeration, Air Conditioning, & Heat Pump (IRAC) Exhibition 2026, organised by the Institute of Refrigeration Ireland (IRI). The bi-annual event proved to be a landmark date for the sector, drawing hundreds of professionals from across the country for a day of networking, innovation, and technical exchange.

A Hub of industry innovation

The atmosphere was one of high energy from the start as nearly 400 wholesalers, manufacturers, specialist contractors and tradespeople gathered to explore the latest advancements in the field. From cutting-edge heat pump technology to high-efficiency refrigeration systems, the 37 companies across the exhibition floor served as a live showcase of the solutions driving the Irish market forward.

IRAC2026
Karen McNevin, Event Coordinator, and Margaret Rafter, President, IRI.

In her programme notes, IRI President Margaret Rafter (Mitsubishi Electric) underscored the vital importance of the gathering:

“Our industry is evolving rapidly. With new technologies, improved efficiencies, and a growing focus on sustainability, events like this allow us to share knowledge, showcase innovation, and strengthen the relationships that keep our industry moving forward.”

Focus on Collaboration and Sustainability

The 2026 show placed a significant emphasis on the industry’s transition toward greener solutions. Exhibitors highlighted equipment designed to meet increasingly stringent environmental standards, while technicians and innovators shared insights on the practicalities of implementing these new systems.

Margaret Rafter thanked the exhibitors for providing “real value” to the attendees, noting that the event’s primary strength lies in its ability to foster collaboration. The show provided a rare opportunity for skilled technicians to engage directly with industry leaders and manufacturers to discuss the future of the trade.

 

Industry Support

The success of the event was bolstered by the support of key industry players. The IRAC 2026 Show was proudly sponsored this year by:

– RSL Group

– Mitsubishi Electric

– RDL

– C&F Quadrant

The massive turnout and the quality of the technical displays reinforce the IRI’s role as a cornerstone of the professional community, ensuring the Irish refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump sector remains at the forefront of technological and environmental excellence.

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