Erneside Shopping Centre, Enniskillen RMG
BUSINESSES throughout Fermanagh have enjoyed a very hectic festive season – thanks to the influx of cross border shoppers.
Throughout the county, car parks have been jammed with southern numbers with shoppers making the most of the low exchange rate, and this is set to continue as the new year sales begin.
Jim Masterson, Erneside Shopping Centre is happy to report that the centre has been extremely busy throughout the run up to Christmas.
“It’s been great to see how busy we are considering the amazing growth in visitor numbers we experienced throughout 2016.
“Cross border trade really took off following the Brexit vote and it has continued through this year.
“The current outlook for the Christmas and New Year trading period is looking positive, we hope it will be equally as strong as last year with the continued support we receive locally and from our cross-border customers taking advantage of the strong euro.
“2018 is possibly going to be a more challenging year and we aim to continue to attract customers with a positive shopping experience, providing a welcoming atmosphere, a comfortable environment and a wide a range of outlets.”
With the current low exchange rate, people have also opted to stay in Fermanagh and shop locally this Christmas.
This has benefited the smaller towns in the county with the local family run businesses getting a lot of trade.
Shane Wilson, President of Lisnaskea Chamber has noted that the town has been busy on the run-up to Christmas.
“The town is seeing a very positive festive atmosphere which starting with the turning on of the Christmas lights at the start of December and every business going the extra mile to achieve that festive feeling.
“A very positive note is that customers are shopping locally which demonstrates the variety that Lisnaskea has to offer.
“The exchange rate has assisted though the strong footfall I believe is due to the efforts by the business community here in Lisnaskea to deliver and demonstrating that the town is an attractable and affordable town to shop this Christmas,” Mr Wilson added.
For the first time ever, an Enniskillen gift card has been launched by BID, which also encourages local shopping with almost £20,000 worth of gift cards sold.
“We are certain that the businesses in town will reap the benefits of all these sales in the new year when everyone will be eagerly wanting to shop with their gifts.
“With the variety of businesses registered people can spend it in so many fun ways from watching a show in the Ardhowen to buying new clothes or having a meal out.”
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