AS Business Trip to JAQ Group

13th November 2025

On Tuesday 11th November myself and the other AS business studies students visited the JAQ Group in Randalstown to gain a deeper understanding of how a real life business operates and to connect our classroom knowledge and theory with real life enterprise. The Essence Vault is a successful fragrance company owned by Connor Matrin (a past pupil of St Louis), who has built a strong reputation for producing affordable, high quality perfumes and aftershaves inspired by popular designer scents.

During the visit, Conor spoke to us about his journey as an entrepreneur, explaining how he identified a gap in the market for more affordable alternatives to luxury scents. He discussed the importance of market research, branding, innovation and customer satisfaction in building a successful business. We learned how the company manages production, quality control and marketing through social media to reach a wide customer base.

A highlight of the trip was the opportunity for students to create their own fragrance based on a newly introduced scent. This hands-on experience allowed us to understand the creative and experimental side of product development and how new fragrances are tested before being launched into the market.

The trip was both educational and engaging, helping us see how theories such as the marketing mix, entrepreneurship and product differentiation are applied in practice. Overall, the visit to the JAQ Group inspired us to think innovatively and gave us a valuable appreciation of the skills needed to start and grow a successful business, with many of us viewing Conor as a role model and inspiration.

Abigail McLernon