Festive cheer for firms as ’tis the season to buy Irish... on the web

SHOPPERS may be prevented from going to their favourite stores to get Christmas gifts – but they are buying Irish online in their droves, Google has said.

Support for local businesses has rocketed, a study shows.

Searches for ‘just buy Irish’ saw a massive increase of 3,495%, the term ‘shop local Ireland’ surged by 540% and ‘buy Irish gifts’ searches went up by 200% in the past week.

Astonishingly, the increases relate to shopping online since the latest lockdown started, just two days ago.

Google Ireland director of small business Alice Mansergh said: ‘Our search data shows that Irish people are actively searching for ways to support

Irish small businesses. The numbers speak for themselves; there is a clear commitment by consumers to shop local where they can. It’s encouraging to see more consumers are specifically looking for Irish gifts at this time of year that is crucial to local businesses.’

The research of Google Trends comes as businesses prepare to face their first weekend in the lead-up to Christmas with their doors closed.

‘It has never been more important for Irish SMEs to have an online presence, but even if you don’t have a website there are quick and easy steps you can take to increase your visibility online and make sure customers can find you,’ Ms Mansergh added. Consumers are taking simple steps, such as including the terms ‘Ireland’ and ‘Irish’ when searching online. But Google says there are additional steps they can take.

Ms Mansergh said: ‘Consumers can narrow their searches when shopping online to ensure they are supporting local retailers and suppliers in their area. Many local businesses don’t have the resources for quick delivery services, so look out for click-and-collect options in your vicinity. And of course, the all-important customer review that can be added to any business with a Google profile will help showcase local businesses to a wider customer base.’