County Carlow’s business community received a major boost this week with the official launch of Grá Carlow, a new countywide “Shop Local, Shop Carlow” campaign designed to encourage consumers to support local businesses and keep spending within the county.
The new brand was unveiled before more than 100 business leaders, community representatives and stakeholders at a special Business Gathering held at Enterprise House on Wednesday, 24 June 2026. The initiative is a collaborative partnership between Carlow County Council, Carlow Tourism and County Carlow Chamber, united in a shared commitment to promoting and supporting local enterprise.
At its core, Grá Carlow aims to foster community pride, increase awareness of local businesses and encourage residents and visitors alike to make local purchasing decisions that directly benefit the county’s economy.
Speaking at the launch, Kieran Comerford, Head of Economic Development & Enterprise with Carlow County Council’s Local Enterprise Office, highlighted the importance of supporting local businesses in sustaining vibrant town centres and communities.
“Supporting local businesses is essential to the future growth and prosperity of County Carlow,” said Comerford. “Grá Carlow provides a strong, unified message that encourages people to shop locally, helping to generate footfall, sustain jobs and showcase the incredible range of products and services available throughout the county. Importantly, businesses can join the initiative free of charge by registering through localenterprise.ie/carlow.”
Highlighting the collaborative nature of the campaign, Norah Ryan, President of County Carlow Chamber, said the initiative demonstrates the power of partnership and collective action.
“Grá Carlow is about recognising the value of every local purchase and the positive impact it has on our communities,” said Ryan. “Whether shopping on our high streets or through local online businesses, choosing Carlow businesses helps strengthen our economy, support employment and build resilience for the future.”
The campaign has also been designed to complement Carlow’s successful tourism marketing activities. Eileen O’Rourke, Chief Executive of Carlow Tourism, welcomed the addition of a dedicated shop local brand that aligns with the county’s visitor promotion efforts.
“We are delighted to see Grá Carlow launched alongside our ‘Wander Off the Track’ tourism brand,” said O’Rourke. “Every euro spent locally creates a ripple effect throughout the county, supporting businesses, jobs, hospitality providers and local attractions. By encouraging both visitors and residents to spend locally, we help ensure County Carlow remains a vibrant and thriving place to live, work and visit.”
Businesses across the retail, hospitality, service and trade sectors are now invited to join the initiative and avail of a range of free promotional supports, including marketing toolkits, branded assets and opportunities to feature in future campaign activities.
Registration is free and now open at www.localenterprise.ie/carlow