Clare retailers say they’ve been busier than pre-pandemic levels at times over the last few days.
Last minute shoppers are continuing to pound the pavements in Ennis and across the county as Christmas Day fast approaches.
While many people have indeed hung their stockings, the problem now is trying to fill them!
O’ Connell Street in Ennis and other parts of the county town have been busy all week, with high levels of footfall also being reported in Shannon and Kilrush.
This morning’s rain thankfully hasn’t dampened spirits too much, with shoppers waiting until after the cold snap was over to finish off their in-person purchases.
Maeve Culligan of the County Boutique on Ennis’ O’ Connell Street says they’ve had people of all ages coming through their doors.
The cold weather earlier this month seems to have played a part in people’s present choices.
Padraic Haugh from Mannix Menswear says overcoats and warm woolies have been popular with his customers in recent days.
A group of three entrepreneurs have taken the bold step of opening a new business this week.
Darragh Lynch, Rory Chesser and Oana Neagoe, all from Ennis, have opened running outlet Local Motion at 28 O’ Connell Street, the site of the former Mary Kelly’s shop.
Rory says they’ve been happy with the numbers coming through their doors.
The message of ‘shop local’ seems to have been driven home and once again taken on board across county Clare this Christmas.
Maria Carmody of R Carmody Shoes says the community is rallying around businesses in Ennis over the festive period.
Most shops are open until late tomorrow afternoon if you’re brave enough to venture out.
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