In Strabane gift card the perfect present this Christmas

Members of the public are being encouraged to purchase In Strabane gift cards as Christmas presents this year to help support Strabane businesses.

The gift card was first introduced by the Strabane Business Improvement District (BID) in 2018 and has since ensured that over £40,000 has stayed within the local economy.

The gift card is accepted in 70 businesses throughout the town centre and covers a wide range of business sectors, including cafés, restaurants, retail shops and service providers.

Cards can be purchased online and delivered to the purchaser or, alternatively, straight to the recipient. They are also on sale in store at O'Neills Sportswear.

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Brian Tierney, said the gift cards are a great option for Christmas and will help support local businesses during a crucial time.

"The InStrabane gift cards have been a huge success since their first introduction two years ago, and I think in the current climate they are a more important resource than ever.

"They're an easy and convenient option as a Christmas gift, allowing the recipient to choose whatever they want to spend it on – from food to tyres to clothing to hospitality – and it can be spent across a variety of stores and services rather than all in one place.

"It is absolutely critical that we support our local Strabane businesses after one of the most difficult years they have ever experienced. By purchasing a gift card, you are making sure that your money will stay within the town and will support the local economy.

"I would ask everyone buying Christmas gifts this month to really consider purchasing a gift card. At a value of £5 to £200 it can be a stocking filler or a main present, and you can purchase in the knowledge that you are also supporting local businesses and families."

Kieran Kennedy, Chair of Strabane BID, added: "Christmas is typically an extremely busy period for a lot of businesses and something positive to build from heading into a new year.

"Obviously in 2020 every single business has dealt with unprecedented challenges and now more than ever they need the support of the local people.

"I would ask those who are maybe considering browsing online with a big global company to instead consider the gift card option, taking the hassle out of searching for a present and also giving back to Strabane businesses at a time when they need it most."

To purchase an InStrabane gift card, visit www.instrabane.org or visit O'Neills Sportswear in Strabane.