Wexford small businesses feeling the squeeze but Chamber sees reason for optimism

Small businesses and retailers across County Wexford are continuing to feel the impact of rising operating costs, according to the Chair of Wexford Chamber.

Ed Murphy says businesses have faced increases across energy, insurance, transport, regulation and compliance, with smaller firms particularly vulnerable because they do not have the scale of larger companies.

He said retailers are facing an additional challenge from online shopping and competition from major international companies.

Mr Murphy believes energy and transport remain among the biggest pressures facing businesses and says the cost of regulation and compliance has also become increasingly difficult for smaller companies and start-ups.

He also urged consumers to consider the impact of where they spend their money.

Mr Murphy warned that if consumers increasingly move their spending online, local towns and villages will ultimately lose shops and employment.

He said keeping spending within County Wexford helps local businesses employ local people and is important in encouraging younger generations to continue living and working in the county.

Despite the challenges, the Chamber Chair said he remains optimistic about Wexford's economic prospects.

He identified logistics, food and food technology, offshore wind and other renewable energy industries as areas which could bring significant opportunities to the county in the years ahead.

Mr Murphy said Wexford also needs to embrace new technology, attract future-focused industries and address infrastructure issues if it is to capitalise on that potential.

He said he now sees more reason for optimism about Wexford's future than he has seen in the past decade