Two of Strabane’s most prominent retailers have signed up for the InStrabane Gift Card after the initiative experienced unprecedented sales over the Christmas period.
Caffe Milano in Castle Street and Specsavers in the Pavillion Retail Park will be added to the existing portfolio of over 70 retailers, offering holders of the card an even wider retail offering.
Sinead Lynch, Business Officer at Derry City and Strabane District Council, said the latest additions were a further endorsement of the scheme by Strabane businesses.
“I would like to welcome Specsavers and Caffe Milano to the InStrabane Gift Card scheme,” she said. “Their registration follows hot on the heels of the success of sales for the Strabane gift card over the festive period.
“Christmas sales of the gift card reached and exceeded targets set by the Strabane BID board, securing around £22k worth of spend for local businesses.
“It proved particularly popular with ex-pats and we received an unprecedented level of sales from overseas from individuals who bought the gift card for loved ones living in Strabane.
“Almost £6k of sales have already been redeemed in businesses in the town leaving considerable amounts still to be spent in local businesses.
“Those sales will be particularly welcome for local businesses in the quieter months at the beginning of this year when businesses offer customers new products and offerings.”
A spokesperson for Specsavers said they were delighted to be added to the scheme: “Specsavers is thrilled to join the Strabane BID membership and be part of an energetic group which is contributing to further energising and revitalising the retail landscape in Strabane.
“Our staff are committed to looking after the eye and hearing health of people in the Strabane area and we appreciate the support of the BID team and the opportunities to learn and share best practice with everyone in the local business community.”
Majella McDermott, Caffe Milano, added: “ We are delighted to join the growing network of companies in the InStrabane Gift Card scheme and look forward to welcoming holders to our welcoming and family friendly cafe for coffees, breakfast, lunch and sweet treats.
“The card is a great way for local businesses to work together to promote Strabane’s retail offering and to encourage people to make the effort to shop in the town and support local businesses.”
The Strabane Gift Card Scheme offers cards ranging in value from £5 to £200 and registered businesses include the Alley Theatre, Café Fresco and O’Neills Sportswear.
Recipients can check the balance and status of their card using the links and numbers noted on the back of the card.
Businesses are encouraged to inform customers that they accept the card through word of mouth, social media channels and on their promotional materials.
To find out more about the InStrabane gift card or to purchase a
card online, visit https://instrabanegiftcard.com/.