DOZENS of Ennis businesses across a range of sectors are joining forces to try and help bring about a sustained recovery in the town, as the spectre of lockdowns begins to retreat.
Speaking about it this week one of the leading figures in the town’s hospitality sector, Allen Flynn of the Old Ground hotel said that there is some very positive work happening.
“Over 75 businesses have come together. We’re in the early stages of a recovery plan and it’s vital in terms of positivity for the town.
“Ennis Chamber has led the way in terms of raising funds for a niche destination plan for the town and that is being implemented now under the chairmanship of Brian Crowley, who is a very proud Ennisman.
“There will be various initiatives in terms of assisting a recovery plan for the town.
“There will be an Ennis portal, which will drive overnight visitors, day visitors and shopping. For the first time ever Ennis will have a dedicated digital marketing person employed to promote Ennis.
“The businesses are very much aware that if Ennis is going to hit the benchmark that has been set by the likes of Westport and Kilkenny, the most important thing is that we all work together, on positive solutions.”
He feels it is important that business people, consumers and the local population are aware that efforts are being made to guide Ennis on its path to recovery from the lows of 2020/21.
“We’re all very much aware that a lot of people are trying to stay positive, but dealing with Covid has been very difficult on businesses.
“It’s important that they know there is good support out there in terms of what will be done with Ennis.
“It’s important to let them know that things will be done, it’s important to let customers know, and the people of Ennis.”
In a recent statement, the group said,”We expect a few bumps on the road over coming months, but armed with positivity, we have come together as a group to focus our efforts on a bright future for Ennis, the town we love.
“It is easy to see problems, but much harder to find solutions, however solutions and positive thinking are at the heart of this group. “
The statement praised those who have supported and been loyal to local businesses, and asked them to help with promoting Ennis.
“To our customers, we look forward to seeing you and serving you once more. Thank you for your support and continued loyalty, we really appreciate it.
“For our part we promise to continue to work hard to deliver excellent customer service, to keep you, our customers safe and to preserve the integrity of our beautiful town.
“We hope we can rely on you to be our ambassadors by championing Ennis locally and wherever you go in the world.”
Owen Ryan has been a journalist with the Clare Champion since 2007, having previously worked with a number of other publications in Limerick, Cork and Galway. His first book will be published in December 2024.