Let’s all shop local, urges Nenagh chamber

As a new generation of business owners take over at the helm in Nenagh Chamber of Commerce, they have put out a call urging people to shop local, saying it will help protect the local economy, maintain Nenagh’s great reputation and guarantee local employment now and into the future.

“In a time when many communities are facing economic challenges, the importance of supporting local businesses has never been more crucial, said the newly appointed Nenagh Chamber of Commerce President,” William Talbot.

Mr Talbot, proprietor of Sherry Fitzgerald Auctioneers in Kenyon Street, said that “local enterprises are the backbone of our town's economy and their success directly impacts our community’s vibrancy and sustainability.”

Mr Talbot said that when people choose to shop locally, they are making a conscious decision to invest in their community.

“Local businesses provide unique products and services that contribute to the distinct character of our town,” he stressed.

“Without this support, our town risks the decline that leads to empty storefronts and a loss of community spirit. “By supporting local shops, restaurants, and service providers, we help ensure our town remains lively and inviting.”

SUBSTANTIAL DONATIONS

Mr Talbot said local businesses are very grateful for the custom they receive, In appreciation of that support they make substantial donations to local clubs and organisations.

“Beyond their economic contributions, local businesses play a vital role in supporting community initiatives,” he said.

“Each year, local businesses collectively donate up to €10,000 per business to local sports clubs and charities.”

The new Chamber President added: “These contributions are essential for the sustainability of local sports teams, youth programmes, and charitable organisations that rely on community support to operate.

“This financial backing helps nurture talent, promote healthy lifestyles, and provide essential services to those in need.”

CREATING EMPLOYMENT

The chamber said local businesses are key employers within our community, offering jobs and creating opportunities for the next generation.

Mr Talbot added: “By fostering a thriving local economy, we help ensure that our young people have access to meaningful employment close to home. This not only reduces the need for out-of-town commutes, but also keeps our town dynamic and forward-looking.”

SUPPORT

Chamber Vice-President Deirdre Keller, is supporting the drive by the chamber to raise awareness in the community about the importance of supporting local shops and other businesses.

“Nenagh is a fantastic town, and it’s important that we all keep that positive vibe going and ensure that we keep the centre of town alive,” said Ms Keller.

Ms Keller, the proprietor of Solemates, a shoe shop for women and girls at Cecil Walk off Kenyon Street, said local businesses were still facing many challenges because of the way people shop and due to changes in the way we live.

But she said it was great that Nenagh’s reputation as an attractive town seemed to be growing around the country.

“People come to Nenagh from places like Roscrea, Thurles, Limerick and Galway because they are drawn by its wonderful shops and cafes.

“We have a reputation as destination town, but we need more support to preserve this reputation,” she said.

Ms Keller said the massive growth in online shopping, the continued expansion in market share by supermarket multiples and the draw of city shopping all have a serious impact on shops and businesses in the heart of Nenagh.

“It’s great,” she said, “that we have such a high standard of coffee shops in Nenagh and such a wonderful range of inviting shops. But maintaining that reputation means the community has to consider the broader impact of their spending choices.”

GREAT FUTURE

The PRO of the chamber is Denis Finnerty, who said new facilities and attractions coming down the line for Nenagh over the coming five years will make the town a place to be even more proud of.

Mr Finnerty: “We as a chamber have been so lucky that we had a Nenagh native Joe MacGrath as Chief Executive of Tipperary County Council for the past ten years. His contribution and that of people like the local authority District Administrator Rosemary Joyce to working in partnership with the Chamber has really paid off for Nenagh.”

Mr Finnerty, proprietor of a pharmacy store in Kenyon Street, said he was delighted to see that a new generation was now at the helm of the chamber.

“I have no doubt that they are going to do a great job for Nenagh in the years to come and I would ask all other people with shops and businesses in the town to row in and get involved in the work of the chamber.”

PROTECT LOCAL ECONOMY

In his final words, William Tabot again urged the community in Nenagh to support the drive to make the town an even better place to live and work.

“Every euro spent in a local business helps to sustain our community’s unique character, support local causes, and provide employment opportunities,” he said.

“Together, we can prevent our town from becoming a ghost town and build a prosperous future for all.”