The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
‘By shopping local it benefits the entire Killarney community’
JOHN McEnery of ‘J MAC Computer and Printer Specialists’ is the Retailers of Killarney Chairman and he is keen to emphasise the importance of shopping local this Christmas.
“It’s important to keep money in your own locality and there is now great value and a great shopping range in the town. Add in the vast choice of coffee bars and restaurants we have and it makes it a great place to shop,” John said.
John also believes the onetime trend of heading to places like Dublin and Cork for Christmas shopping has decreased considerably in recent years as better quality stories and value for money is now available right on our own doorstep.
“The trend has waned and people are now shopping local in greater numbers. Even online shopping is no longer as cheap as it once was and prices are now on a par with High Street stores. But one of our main selling points, as local retailers, is the after sales service we offer. This is important to customers.”
Employment is also a major issue and by shopping local customers are creating a circular affect in helping to sustain employment.
The annual Christmas Hamper draw, with prizes worth over €3,000, is again popular this year and customers can get their tickets in the majority of retail outlets which is a major boost to trade.
Lastly, John praised the Christmas in Killarney activities as they help to keep people and families in the town and enjoying the special atmosphere of Christmas and Killarney combined.