Four local retailers get funding to enhance online presence

Four local retailers are among the latest group of businesses to receive government funding to enhance their online presence.

Expert Ireland Retail Limited, Fagan's, Mullingar, Galvin for Men and McGorisks Pharmacy are the four latest Westmeath businesses to benefit from funding under the Online Retail Scheme (ORS) which is administered by Enterprise Ireland.

The scheme's latest round of funding sees the four retailers approved for funding of up to €64,000. The scheme was open to retailers who already have an online presence and who have a physical store and is targeted at enhancing their online capabilities and presence so they can best exploit new opportunities and attract new customers.

The news has been welcomed by Minister of State in the Department of Enterprise and TD for Longford and Westmeath, Robert Troy.

“The last number of years has brought to our attention the importance for businesses to have an online presence. The Online Retail Scheme will aid businesses to future-proof themselves alongside the ample opportunities to grow their business online and reach both domestic and overseas customers.

“Retailers are an integral part of our communities and towns and I’m delighted to see the inclusion of four Westmeath retailers including Expert Ireland Retail Limited, Fagans Mullingar, Galvins for Men and McGorisks Pharmacy. The retailers will now be supported on their journey to digitalise their business," he said.

Including the most recent successful applicants, since 2018 more than 700 projects from retailers based in Ireland have been approved for €28.3m in funding through the Government’s Online Retail Scheme. Successful applicants will receive a grant ranging from €10,000 to a maximum of €64,000.

Recipients from this latest call are based across all counties in Ireland and are from a number of sectors, including hardware, pharmacy, clothing and furniture.