New council campaign says where you shop makes a difference

The council’s Make It Local spring campaign carries the strapline ‘Where You Shop Makes a Difference’ and focuses on Newry and Downpatrick.

A council spokesperson said: “By introducing some of the friendly faces behind Newry and Downpatrick’s independent businesses, the campaign focuses on the message that small business owners are a vital part of our communities - they are our neighbours and our friends.”

The campaign has been funded by the Department for Communities (DfC), which has also supported an free programme of events in Newry and Downpatrick over the last three months including temporary, interactive sound and light exhibitions, enhanced St Patrick’s Day celebrations and a free classical Easter concert.

The spokesperson added: "It is widely recognised that experiences and initiatives assist in creating vibrant and sustainable town centres. The package of funding was provided to market and animate our high street offering in the aftermath of the autumn flooding that severely impacted parts of their commercial centres.”

Department for Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said, “This initiative highlights the great local shops, family-run cafes, restaurants and independent retailers in the Newry and Downpatrick area. It will encourage people to visit local businesses and high streets, therefore stimulating the local economy, especially in the aftermath of the recent flooding that severely impacted parts of the town centres.”

Council Chairperson Cllr Valerie Harte added, "The Council recognises the challenges faced by its businesses in the aftermath of the recent flooding. The funding allowed us to demonstrate our support for our local business and high streets in a practical and creative way. We want everyone to know that ‘where you shop makes a difference’ and encourage everyone to continue to do so.”