With the rising popularity of Amazon, Temu and Shein, small retailers in remote villages on the west coast battle to survive the Christmas buying frenzy. However, the loyalty of locals to their village traders is key to keeping these businesses afloat over the festive season. Emily Connell, the owner of Chalk and Easel, a lifestyle and craft shop, in the village of Ballinspittle, Co Cork. Almost a decade later, she often has specific customers in mind when placing her orders for Christmas. That is why it is so important to support the smaller shops who price fairly all year round and as a result can’t partake in huge discounts,” says Connell.

Source: The Irish Times December 22, 2025 10:31 UTC