Digital Business Ireland, the country’s largest representative body for digital and online businesses has urged the public to ‘Click Green, Buy Nearby’ in the Christmas shopping rush. Following the announcement of the finalists for the National Digital Awards 2023, proudly supported by PTSB, DBI have compiled a list of 24 top businesses to buy from this Christmas period, and beyond.
A survey carried out by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission found that average expenditure this Christmas will be down 13% compared with last year – €1,030, down from €1,186 in 2022 – making it more important than ever to spend where that money will be reinvested into the local economy.
The ‘Click Green Buy Nearby’ campaign aims to encourage online shoppers to make a concentrated effort to purchase goods and services from the websites of retailers in Ireland. DBI contends that the majority of online shoppers want to support businesses operating here – so converting that sentiment into real-time purchases is crucial.
Spanning numerous sectors across the digital commerce space, including retail, health and beauty, technology, hospitality and more, the websites named have been selected from a number of categories in this year’s National Digital Awards.
With more than 550 entries submitted, the finalists were revealed last week following deliberations among the esteemed judging panel of industry experts. Renowned brands such as Great Outdoors, Donnybrook Fair and EZ Living Furniture appear on the list, along with smaller SMEs whose websites have excelled across user experience, creativity, design, accessibility and compliance.
In addition, many retailers have significantly invested in their ecommerce infrastructure in order to have digital functionality – so, by ‘clicking green’, consumers are helping the recovery of businesses, and protecting jobs and communities throughout the country.
Speaking on the launch of the list, Chairperson of Digital Business Ireland, Ashley McDonnell said, “Digital Business Ireland is delighted to highlight these exceptional websites and businesses which will provide a helpful guide to consumers during this busy period of festive shopping. Every year, we’re amazed at the creativity and quality of the businesses which enter the National Digital Awards. We know it is an expensive time of year, so we’re urging shoppers to choose local sellers and spend their money with Irish businesses, reinvesting it into the local economy in a way that we will all reap the benefits.”
View the full list here.
Source: Digital Business Ireland
