Irish consumers believe supporting local is key for economy

A survey of 2,000 consumers in Ireland has revealed that 81 per cent of consumers believe supporting the local economy is key to emerging from the crisis.

Smaller businesses and stores were found to be the most popular options for consumers throughout the lockdown, with almost two thirds (62 per cent) shunning the multiples to support the local and the national economy.

Other popular reasons cited for doing so were that consumers had made purchases in these shops previously (38 per cent) and it was faster to get the product (29 per cent).

Three quarters (75 per cent) of people are more conscious of the importance of community and working together, with older respondents (81 per cent) more mindful of this than younger ones (69 per cent).

“The Covid-19 lockdown impacted everyone and many uncertainties still remain, but there is a silver lining in that communities are coming together in Ireland and supporting each other – not just people helping others but also spending with local businesses and retailers,” said Annette Hickey, vice-president for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Customer Services, PayPal.

The research also showed that the way we pay has changed with almost two thirds of Irish consumers stating that a cashless approach is important to them.

39 per cent of those surveyed said they do not want to use cash going forward.

Annette continued: “With more than 1.35 million customers in Ireland, we know how important it is for people to be able to manage, move and spend their money how they want and via the methods they choose. So, as well as implementing measures to help facilitate socially distanced shopping, businesses need to enable people to purchase goods in different ways in-store or, alternatively, buy online.

“In doing so, together we can overcome the obstacles posed by the pandemic and create a brighter future, a safer experience and a stronger Ireland.”