THINK LOCAL FIRST THIS EASTER - #SHOPKILKENNY!  

This week sees the launch of a new #shopkilkenny Easter drive which is the latest phase of a longer-term campaign designed to support shops, small businesses and those that are self-employed locally. The campaign is supported by Kilkenny County Council, Local Enterprise Office, Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce and individual retailers and businesses and aims to remind shoppers about the importance of spending locally this Easter.

In addition to a two week radio campaign on KCLR, the promotion includes a #shopkilkenny social media competition with Kilkenny shopping vouchers to the value of €500 up for grabs. Vouchers are kindly sponsored by MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre, Market Cross Shopping Centre, Goods, Butterslip and Lorimat Jewellers. To be in with a chance of winning, all you have to do is tune in to KCLR or go to their Facebook, Twitter or Instagram page for details.

Speaking about the initiative, Councillor Eamon Aylward, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council said “Spreading the #shopkilkenny message is of critical importance, particularly at a time when two-thirds of consumer spending online is fulfilled by businesses operating outside of Ireland. Kilkenny offers a unique and diverse shopping experience with an impressive range of shops and businesses right on our doorstep and I urge people to take advantage of this and think local first this Easter.”

Following the post-Christmas lull, Easter kick starts the Bank Holiday season and usually brings with it a welcome boost in footfall and retail sales as the weather improves and people get into the mode of renewing their wardrobes, gardens and homes. “With Easter just around the corner, consumers are ready to shop and retailers are ready to offer great deals on everything from Easter eggs to garden tools. Making small changes to our shopping habits can make a big difference. Supporting local keeps more money circulating close to home and keeps Kilkenny businesses alive and thriving.” commented Marion Acreman, President of Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce.

Fiona Deegan, Head of Enterprise at Local Enterprise Office Kilkenny added “The bottom line is that every euro spent locally is reinvested into the local economy. This not only impacts directly on job security for your next-door neighbour’s son or daughter or your niece or nephew, it also ensures the livelihood of our community as a whole. For this reason we all need to make a special effort to #shopkilkenny this Easter and support the businesses who provide sustainable employment locally and preserve our beautiful streetscapes.”