Four Mayo businesses to benefit from Online Retail Scheme funding

FOUR retailers in Mayo are set to benefit from the €5 million government Online Retail Scheme.

Patrick J. Lavelle (Chemist), Seamus Quinn and Sons Ltd., Horkans Garden Centre and Vaughan Footwear will receive funding from the scheme which has been instrumental in enabling many local businesses to pivot their offerings online over the past year and a half.

Welcoming the allocations, Deputy Alan Dillon said: “Retailers in Mayo have been hit extremely hard by Covid-19 and many have had to move their sales online or expand their existing online offering, and the government has been working to ensure they are supported in doing so during this challenging time.”

Nationally, 133 retailers have been approved €5 million in funding as part of the scheme, which is targeted at retailers who already have an online presence to strengthen their online offering and enable them to reach a wider customer base.

“Covid has had a devastating impact on retailers in Mayo who had to close as restrictions were implemented, but this funding will continue to support businesses in establishing a strong online presence so that they’re now better equipped to take advantage of evolving market opportunities.

“The successful applicants will receive funding ranging from €14,080 to €40,000 to strengthen their online offering. The average grant value is €37,500 and covers up to 80% of project costs.

“This financial support will assist Mayo businesses to transition and evolve as they trade through the impact of the pandemic.

“I look forward to seeing more and more businesses reopen as we emerge from the pandemic, but it’s also brilliant that we can now support an ever-increasing range of Mayo businesses online.”