LEO and Leitrim County Council to revisit Leitrim Gift Voucher initiative

Town and city gift vouchers have become increasingly popular across Ireland, sparking calls for the introduction of a similar initiative in Leitrim to stimulate the local economy.

Cllr Maeve Reynolds highlighted the benefits of such vouchers, proposing that the Council in collaboration with the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) explore the potential for introducing a similar scheme.

“A Leitrim gift card would give employers an opportunity to reward their staff directly and contribute to the local economy,” Cllr Reynolds said.

Cllr Reynolds told members of the high commission rates that are charged by existent voucher schemes, such as One4All, which may discourage small businesses from participating.

She also noted that only 28 businesses across the county accept One4All vouchers.

“A Leitrim gift card would provide a low cost alternative to help more businesses engage and will ensure that more money stays in the local economy,” she added.

She explained the success of similar initiatives, using Letterkenny as an example. Since its introduction in 2004, €22.7 million of gift cards have been purchased and €5.7 million was recorded in sales in 2023 alone. 

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One third of customers also reportedly sent up to four times the value of the card.

“Making the gift card available across the entire county would not only support local businesses but also foster a sense of unity throughout the county, connecting communities north and south for a better initiative to reinforce the idea of cohesive sport,” Cllr Reynolds concluded.

All members supported Cllr Reynolds motion.

The Local Enterprise Office responded, stating that while they previously explored options in collaboration with the Council, the initiative can be revisited.

Leitrim LEO explained that active participation and strong commitment of local retailers is essential to the success of such schemes.

“Leitrim County Council and LEO will engage with the respective Town Teams and Business Groups to see if Leitrim businesses would be interested in introducing this type of initiative,” the reply concluded.

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