Carlow County Council – Local Enterprise Office, in partnership with Carlow Tourism, County Carlow Chamber and Network Ireland, has officially launched the 2025 Shop Local, Shop Carlow campaign – a dynamic, countywide initiative aimed at encouraging residents to support local businesses, strengthen the local economy, and promote Carlow as a vibrant tourism destination.
As visitor numbers grow and summer approaches, the campaign serves as a timely reminder that local choices make a real difference. From our independent retailers and artisan producers to the cafés, restaurants, gardens, and heritage sites that make Carlow unique, Shop Local, Shop Carlow invites every resident to become a local ambassador and support the economic heartbeat of our towns and villages.
Speaking at the campaign’s launch, Cathaoirleach Cllr. Fergal Browne emphasised the power of local spending: “Shopping locally is one of the most direct ways we can support our communities. Every time we choose a Carlow business, we’re not just making a transaction—we’re investing in jobs, families, and the future of our town and county. I encourage everyone to think local, act local, and be proud ambassadors for all that Carlow has to offer.”
Nicola Doran, CEO of County Carlow Chamber , highlighted the measurable economic benefit of choosing local businesses saying “Every €10 spent locally generates over €40 in local economic activity. This positively impacts us all. By deliberately choosing to shop, experience and enjoy county Carlow, we’re helping to sustain our villages and town centres, maintain jobs, and foster a strong, resilient local economy. Whether you're buying a gift, booking a tour, or simply enjoying a coffee - those choices matter. ”
Echoing that sentiment from a tourism perspective, Chief Executive of Carlow Tourism, Eileen O’Rourke, said “Tourism begins at home, and in Carlow, we’re proud of the incredible experiences we have on our doorstep. We encourage all residents to become ambassadors for our county — whether you have friends, family, or guests visiting, take the opportunity to bring them to our fantastic local attractions, cafés, gardens, and heritage sites. When we shop local and explore local, we all benefit.”
As a collaborative effort between Carlow County Council, the Local Enterprise Office, Carlow Tourism, and County Carlow Chamber, the campaign will include digital promotions, printed materials and a series of competitions to drive awareness and reward those who support local.
To kickstart the campaign, a competition held during the recent Pan Celtic Festival generated an enthusiastic response, with over 450 entries from both locals and visitors. Three lucky winners were selected at random, each receiving a €100 voucher to enjoy a meal at one of Carlow’s beloved hospitality venues – Lennon’s, Teach Dolmain, or Brooks/Dinn Ri. Congratulations to Pádraig Dooley, Máirtín Mullooly, and Emer Breen, who are now among the first to celebrate local while enjoying the best of Carlow.
The campaign is just getting started. Over the coming months, residents and visitors can look forward to more chances to win, discover local gems, and feel good about the impact of their everyday choices. Shop Local, Shop Carlow is not just a slogan—it’s a movement. One that calls on all of us to celebrate and support the places, people, and businesses that make Carlow a special place to live, work, and visit.