The Killarney Advertiser, in conjunction with the Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce and the Killarney Town Retail Association, have just launched a new campaign to create awareness and support for small local businesses that are dealing with a challenging trading environment.

Speaking at the launch this week, Killarney Advertiser's Chris Davies said, “We are not going to be able to solve all of the different challenges our local businesses are facing but as consumers we can make a difference by making a conscious effort to shop locally when we can. We know that when we spend locally, we are keeping money circulating within the community, supporting local jobs, strengthening the local economy and protecting the character of our town”.

When discussing challenges posed by big discounters and the lure of online Chris added, "of course, you might find lower prices online sometimes but consider the hidden costs of neglecting the small independent retailer. Those savings often come at the expense of local jobs, unique offerings, and a vibrant community. When you shop local, your money stays local, supporting your neighbours, friends, and families”.

Over the coming weeks and months the Killarney Advertiser will be highlighting some of the many great small businesses in town with a business spotlight feature. We are encouraging our readers to get to know the faces behind these businesses and to remember them when doing their weekly shop, buying gifts or shopping for clothes.

As one business owner said in response to our recent business survey, "Talk to the business owner, tell them what you’re paying online and ask if can they match it? It might be that small little boost they need"

“More than just shopping outlets, these businesses are never found wanting when it comes to sponsoring local events, supporting charity fundraisers, and backing sports clubs and projects. When they thrive, so does our town”, Chris added. 

William Sheahan represents members of the Killarney Town Retail Associaton in his role as chairperson. Speaking about the new shop local campaign this week he said “Killarney Town Retailers Association (KTRA) welcomes the initiative shown by Killarney Advertiser in creating a Shop Local Campaign for our town. Hopefully, through this campaign we can remind people of all that is good about our town centre shops from butchers to footwear, fashion to fragrances - our town centre has a huge amount to offer both locals & tourists alike. We hope to roll out a number of initiatives this year to drive more people to our town centre”.

Bridget O’ Keefe, Senior Executive with the Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce, also welcomed the campaign adding, “The Chamber is delighted to be a part of the new campaign which will shed a light on Killarney's fantastic retail offering".

Killarney Advertiser owner Cormac Casey concluded, "Killarney has some fantastic, long-standing small businesses in town, many of which we have built up great relationships with down through the years. The success of the Killarney Advertiser was built on the support of local businesses so we are delighted to launch this campaign to raise awareness around the importance of supporting the local economy.