ISME has today launched its 2022 Shop Local campaign calling on shoppers and businesses to “Think, Spend and Support Local”.
The campaign has been developed to promote products and services from SMEs across Ireland.
The focus of the campaign is for consumers to “Think Local” before they buy, then “Spend Locally” and “Support” with recommendations and referrals, not just for the Christmas shopping period, but throughout the year.
ISME said that by spending and supporting locally we can support communities, cut our carbon footprint and transport costs, access products that are sustainable and traceable and get quality and value for money.
Neil McDonnell, chief executive at ISME, said that Christmas 2022 will be the third successive year of challenged trading conditions for many Irish businesses.
But he said that consumers can save time, money, and the environment by keeping at least a portion of their festive spending local this Christmas.
Siobhán Ni Ghairbith, owner of St Tola Goat Cheese, said that for a small family run business in rural Co Clare, Shop Local is so important to the business as it keeps the circular economy going within the community.
Laura Daly from Wines Direct said the family-run company in Co Westmeath is committed to further engaging in the local community.
“We work with indie winemakers who have devoted themselves to sustainable and ethical winemaking. By supporting us, you support them and the local Mullingar community,” she added.
Article Source: ISME launches new Shop and Support Local campaign – RTE