It’s claimed confidence in the business sector in Clare is dropping, despite a marginal increase in the volume of sales over the past year.
Latest figures from the CSO show that, though sales dropped by 2.4% in the month of May, there was an increase of 1.1% annually, across the retail sector.
However, it’s hoped the Irish Open will give the entire county a significant boost.
The CSO’s figures show only a marginal increase in retail sales over the past year, but this varies from sector to sector.
Sales of electric goods are up by a quarter.
Pharmacies are also doing well, with an almost 10% increase in trade due mainly to medical and cosmetic sales, while the ‘books, stationery and newspaper’ category is up 2.8%.
Mary Kelly of Kelly’s Newsagents in Ennis says this is down to a shift towards a renewed interest in writing, after years of digital dominance.
The food and beverage sector is one of those which has taken a hit, with the the value of sales down 2.8% in a year.
This is being put down in part to the return to the 13.5% VAT rate for the hospitality industry in January, after they had enjoyed several years of the lower 9% rate, introduced in 2012.
But Alan Flynn of the Old Ground Hotel, who is Vice President of Ennis Chamber, says they’re hopeful that the impact of the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open being held in Lahinch this week will play its part in meeting the shortfall.
However, concern is being expressed in some quarters about the ever-changing retail industry and the effect that’s having on local business owners.
Patrick Bourke of Bourke’s Menswear in Ennis and Kilrush says it’s a challenging time – and any boost they received during last year’s heatwave has long been lost.
