NEWS RELEASE: 1,000 NEW JOBS CREATED IN 230 LOCAL SHOPS SINCE 2011: RGDATA URGES DAIL COMMITTEE TO SUPPORT LOCAL IRISH ENTREPENEURS
RGDATA the representative association for independent family grocers, today (12 March 2013), revealed that 1,000 new jobs have been created by 230 local family owned shops since 2011.
The figure comes from a survey of RGDATA members who operate independent shops, convenience stores and supermarkets*.
RGDATA is campaigning to get Government to introduce policies that support local Irish entrepreneurs including independent grocers in order to create and sustain jobs in local communities.
At a presentation to the Joint Committee on Jobs, Enterprise & Innovation (1.30pm Tuesday 12 March **) Tara Buckley, Director General, RGDATA said:
"This is a very positive message about independent grocers creating jobs during one of the toughest economic climates for retail. Independent shops do not roll down the shutters and shut up shop when times get tough. They roll up their sleeves and get on with creating and retaining jobs and adapting their businesses".
A delegation of independent retailers including Dundalk retailer, Colin Fee, Gary Morton of Morton's in Ranelagh and second generation Mayo retailer Rob Murphy, highlighted the importance of local family owned shops to vibrant towns, local economies and the creation and retention of local jobs.
Independent retailer, Colin Fee urged the committee to take action to combat the rise in the illicit trade in fuel, tobacco and alcohol.
Family grocer, Rob Murphy called for National Guidance on Car Parking and Smart Travel to save town centres from desertion.
Gary Morton of Morton's in Ranelagh asked the committee to address overzealous clampers in Dublin and end the practice of 'free parking' in out of town shopping centres.
Buckley outlined the details of an RGDATA Report Nightmare on Every Street urging National Guidelines on Car Parking and specific measures that policymakers should address to assist independent shops to survive and thrive including: abolition of the Retail Grocery Joint Labour Committee; ringfencing the National Lottery Retail Agents' margin, ensuring access to credit, reducing Commercial Rates and tackling the red tape burden.
RGDATA said the Independent Retail Grocery & Convenience Sector provides over 90,000 jobs and makes a total contribution of €3.6 billion to the Irish economy.
The RGDATA presentation is available at www.rgdata.ie

-ENDS-

*The study was a survey of a 230 RGDATA members. The results show that 230 shops have created 1,000 new jobs since 2011.
**Check for delivery
For further information please contact:
Roseanne Regan
Communications and Public Affairs Manager
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01-2887584
0863707475
The Retail Grocery Dairy & Allied Trades Association - RGDATA