Dundalk doing the business

DUNDALK is enjoying an economic boost despite the doom and gloom surrounding Brexit, according to BIDS Manager Martin McElligott.

Mr McElligott, who was one of those who met with An Taoiseach Enda Kenny when he visited Dundalk last Thursday, said that ‘Dundalk is being seen as a growth area’ by companies wishing to expand their base and set up business in a new location.

‘Dundalk is a very, very competitive town and we have a very strong retail sector.’

‘Retail is growing in Dundalk and is not shrinking,’ he continued. ‘For the first time in a very long time, as soon as shops are closing, there are people wanting to get into them.’

He revealed that the town is seen as particularly attractive to companies who are looking to expand and that a number of new businesses have opened in the town since Brexit with another ‘almost over the line’.

While the currency exchange rate is a matter of concern for traders, it’s an issue which affects all Ireland and not just Dundalk, he said. He believed that in time, inflation in the UK will drive up prices there so that businesses north of the Border will lose from whatever short term gain they are getting at the moment.

While consumers chase items such as ‘ booze and biscuits’, he pointed out that Dundalk has very good offerings across a wide retail range including clothing, shows, and make-up.

‘We have to concentrate on making Dundalk an attractive place for people to shop in, work in and socialise in,’ he continued. ‘We can work on improving what we have to offer people, customer service, infrastructure within the and environment.’

‘It’s not a bad town and we are well ahead of the posse.’