The Waterford Shop Local Git Voucher initiative has seen a six-fold increase this year, according to Waterford Chamber CEO Gerald Hurley.
The vouchers, which can be spent in over 190 outlets in Waterford City and Tramore, have become the go-to gift this Christmas as people endeavour to support local.
According to Gerald: “We put every effort into getting the shop local message out there this Christmas and we are delighted to see it has paid off for local retailers. We are proud to say over 250 Waterford companies supported the initiative this Christmas by buying vouchers for their staff, while our vendor partners The Book Centre and Waterford Credit Union also saw significant footfall with the public purchasing the vouchers as gifts.
“This Christmas we have had all hands on deck in the office processing orders and it has been a joy to do our bit to support the business community. The Waterford Shop Local Gift Voucher Scheme is an initiative by ourselves, Waterford City & County Council and the Waterford Business Group, which began six years ago and this has seen been the most successful by a mile.
“We are extremely proud of the people and businesses of Waterford who made a conscious effort to support the business community, particularly as they suffered so much this year. They can now be guaranteed that over €600,000 will be spent directly in Waterford and we look forward to the tills ringing in the New Year.
“As always, we ask people to exercise caution when shopping and please follow all government guidelines. We know the weeks after Christmas may be tumultuous but if we remain sensible and safe, we can face into the New Year with renewed optimism and the vouchers will go a long way towards kickstarting that.”