2012 should bring a new year where all Local Authorities, local representatives, business organisations and voluntary groups come together with one common goal – “Promote County Kildare”.
This was the announcement today from North Kildare Chamber, the largest business organisation in Kildare which represents over 200 businesses and is the fastest growing Chamber outside of Dublin in 2011.
Allan Shine, CEO said "With the collective work by all sectors of business in Kildare in producing a Strategic Plan for Kildare for the next 3 years, we must now all work together to promote County Kildare, whether as a tourist destination, leaders in the Equine Industry or home to IT in Ireland, all key stakeholders must now play their part.
2011 has being a tough year for business in Kildare, but the Chamber has seen a collective gathering of thoughts and ideas whilst commencing work on a Strategic Plan for Kildare. Leaders in business such as HP, Kildare Village, Pfizer and Bord na Mona along with Kildare County Council, IDA and our public representatives are working alongside each other in creating a Strategic Plan for Business in Kildare”.
Shine also stated “ This year has seen a 36% increase in SME’s joining the Chamber which shows that business in the County are now engaging more than ever before, it is heartening to see small indigenous businesses come together to foster ideas and learn from one another.
2011 has been an extremely tough year for the Retail sector. Continuing decline month by month in Retail figures coupled by the recent 2% hike in Vat will make 2012 a tough year for many but the retail sector must now join forces locally and promote each other where possible. The shop local theme is beginning to take force and in 2012, the Chamber will commence a series of workshops for the Retail Sector.
The main message that must be portrayed is that by businesses working together and all sectors of business working together, Kildare can send out a positive message and we hope in the Chamber that when we launch our Strategic Plan for Business in Kildare in early 2012 that this will bear fruit” Shine concluded.