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Tesco Ennis
Comments
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Not always, I donate money to charity and GAA clubs with nothing to show except a thankyou and a warm glow inside!0
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Dunnes was kept out of Kilkenny for so long in the past by the well-heeled local businesses with heavy representation on/connection to the local authority who wanted the status to stay quo and who felt that what was good for it/them was good for everybody. The 'one-dimensional price narrative' may indeed be grubby but it is not the only thing that is grubby.
Well considering we have Dunnes, Tesco, Aldi and Lidl already in Ennis I'm not sure how this is relevant.
Ennis town centre is in crisis, we need reform of the rates, parking costs etc. A large Tesco on the suburbs will increase the pressure on the town.
To answer another post from Clareman earlier about jobs being replaced by jobs - It Tesco come with a full superstore and sell furniture, gardening , electrical etc. do you think that these areas are going to be staffed well? Do you think you can walk in there and speak to someone knowledgeable? There might be one person who has a clue what they're doing but that would be about it.0 -
If Tesco come with a full superstore and sell furniture, gardening , electrical etc. do you think that these areas are going to be staffed well? Do you think you can walk in there and speak to someone knowledgeable? There might be one person who has a clue what they're doing but that would be about it.
I detest shopping in places like Tesco Coonagh Cross where there are clothes, electrical goods, computer stuff, books, cds, dvds, stationery, gardening stuff, etc. etc. but NO STAFF to give assistance or advice. Ennis definitely doesn't need such a store. I say bring back local specialist shops - we may have to pay a few euro more for items but our towns will be alive again and we will have social interaction with people other than automatic checkouts.0 -
Well considering we have Dunnes, Tesco, Aldi and Lidl already in Ennis I'm not sure how this is relevant.
Ennis town centre is in crisis, we need reform of the rates, parking costs etc. A large Tesco on the suburbs will increase the pressure on the town.
To answer another post from Clareman earlier about jobs being replaced by jobs - It Tesco come with a full superstore and sell furniture, gardening , electrical etc. do you think that these areas are going to be staffed well? Do you think you can walk in there and speak to someone knowledgeable? There might be one person who has a clue what they're doing but that would be about it.
When you say 'increase the pressure on the town', who are you talking about?0 -
The shops and businesses on the main streets. The electrical shops, clothes shops, bakeries, cafes, bookshops to name but a few.
If a €20million plus turnover per annum behemoth sets up down the road surely those shops could expect to see at least 25% plus drop in sales?0 -
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Join Date:Posts: 23216
I detest shopping in places like Tesco Coonagh Cross where there are clothes, electrical goods, computer stuff, books, cds, dvds, stationery, gardening stuff, etc. etc. but NO STAFF to give assistance or advice. Ennis definitely doesn't need such a store. I say bring back local specialist shops - we may have to pay a few euro more for items but our towns will be alive again and we will have social interaction with people other than automatic checkouts.
This for me is a great post and it shows that different people want different things and there's a place for everyone (hopefully).
Personally, if I'm buying something big I'll research it, look for the best price and be ok with waiting a while to get it in the post, when I go shopping somewhere like Tesco is fine for me because I'll have my list of what I want and go and get it, the 1 thing I've stopped doing is asking staff where to find something because it annoys me that they have to stop what they're doing to bring me to the product I asked about rather than just tell me.0 -
Join Date:Posts: 23216
The shops and businesses on the main streets. The electrical shops, clothes shops, bakeries, cafes, bookshops to name but a few.
If a €20million plus turnover per annum behemoth sets up down the road surely those shops could expect to see at least 25% plus drop in sales?
If they see a 25% drop in sales they'll also see a 25% drop in purchases, ultimately the amount of money being made by the business will drop but it shouldn't just be the amount their sales drop by.
The amount of travel agents in town has dropped considerably in the last few years, this isn't because of a big name opening up in town, it's because of people's ability to get the same things cheaper online or over the phone, should the internet/phone sales be blocked because of the impact to high street travel agents?0 -
If they see a 25% drop in sales they'll also see a 25% drop in purchases, ultimately the amount of money being made by the business will drop but it shouldn't just be the amount their sales drop by.
The amount of travel agents in town has dropped considerably in the last few years, this isn't because of a big name opening up in town, it's because of people's ability to get the same things cheaper online or over the phone, should the internet/phone sales be blocked because of the impact to high street travel agents?
And a 25% drop in staff employed. My point is that these business are at break even or loss making as it is, they probably have boned their overheads and that 25% is what pays their wages.
No business should buy a product and sell it at the same price as they paid for it. You would need maybe a third of a mark-up to cover over heads.
For e.g if a company turns over 10k before VAT per week and are at break even or thereabouts with staff costs down as low as they can go and still offer a service then a 25% drop in sales equates to a drop in profits from
€3,300 to €2,475.
purchases would drop agreed but your profit would drop nearly a grand a week. That's probably 2 full time wages or complete closure. Remember Clareman most companies have seen their sales halved in recent years. We are near the bottom if you are involved in retail.0 -
Join Date:Posts: 23216
And a 25% drop in staff employed. My point is that these business are at break even or loss making as it is, they probably have boned their overheads and that 25% is what pays their wages.
No business should buy a product and sell it at the same price as they paid for it. You would need maybe a third of a mark-up to cover over heads.
And these are other issues besides Tesco opening a new shop in Ennis, minimum wages and rates are a massive burden on businesses, hence why most businesses that are surviving now are those where the owners are the only ones working there, I would say that most of the owners aren't getting anything near minimum wage for the hours they are working.0 -
I hate shopping centres, horrible soul-less places and I try and avoid them as much as I can. George A Romero had the right idea about him for his zombie flicks
On the other hand, Ennis is horrible to shop in because the streets are too narrow and the footpaths are too narrow and the traffic is constant.
Ennis needs to pedestrianize the main streets and turn the town centre into a plaza.
Make Ennis town centre a nice place to be and it will attract people in there again.0 -
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And these are other issues besides Tesco opening a new shop in Ennis, minimum wages and rates are a massive burden on businesses, hence why most businesses that are surviving now are those where the owners are the only ones working there, I would say that most of the owners aren't getting anything near minimum wage for the hours they are working.
have to agree wit you there clareman.btw the way no personal offence ment
with my ott tatcherite comment ,apoligies:o heat of the moment etc0 -
An awful lot of towns have these issues, all over Ireland, it's very easy to blame the nasty shopping centre out of town, but there are other issues that can't be ignored like MASSIVE rates in town centres, high wage costs and the fact that we're in a recession.
I'm not only blaming the 'nasty SC'. There are a serious number of issues endemic to everything that's wrong in town centres right across the country. Yes rates are a HUGE issue. We all accept the recession argument, but surely wage costs are not such a factor anymore? Do You want to be served in a shop by someone paid pittance? Anyhow, that's not the issue pertaining to this thread. All I was saying is what has unfolded in Naas, and Newbridge, & .....I'm sure there are any number of towns mirroring the scenario here.0 -
And most set out the facts regrading the damage big super markets do.There are an awful lot of books that could be read on the topic,
So who makes them? How much they are paid? The environmental damage all these mean nothing to you?I will by and large go for the cheapest, freedom of choice.I say bring back local specialist shops - we may have to pay a few euro more for items but our towns will be alive again and we will have social interaction with people other than automatic checkouts.
Shopping is also about social interaction and fostering a community spirit as well as purchasing good sna services.On the other hand, Ennis is horrible to shop in because the streets are too narrow and the footpaths are too narrow and the traffic is constant.
Ennis needs to pedestrianize the main streets and turn the town centre into a plaza.
Make Ennis town centre a nice place to be and it will attract people in there again.
Ennis is ready made for pedestrianization. It is a cracking town and good be even better. Opening a multi-million euro behemoth like Tesco will destroy this. People will drone about price but my reply is always...well with your savings you can visit your kids when they are off working in Melbourne.0 -
Join Date:Posts: 23216
You could have pointed out that Supermarkets are destroying book shops as well.And most set out the facts regrading the damage big super markets do.
By and large I go for brand names, Dell/Alienware computers, Samsung TVs. This is a discussion that has nothing to do with Tesco in Ennis though, it's more to do with your conscience.So who makes them? How much they are paid? The environmental damage all these mean nothing to you?
Great Euthopian ideals there, I'm picturing Are You Being Served? and Open All Hours, again nothing to do with Tesco Ennis, if anything having people going to 1 large building and interacting with each other there would be a good thing, I know I had many the romance start in Dunnes Mall when I was younger.Shopping is also about social interaction and fostering a community spirit as well as purchasing good sna services.
I'm really struggling to figure out how to reply to this.Ennis is ready made for pedestrianization. It is a cracking town and good be even better. Opening a multi-million euro behemoth like Tesco will destroy this. People will drone about price but my reply is always...well with your savings you can visit your kids when they are off working in Melbourne.
The behemoth you are talking about is already in place, they just want to open a new, brighter, bigger version, an awful lot of people already go to Limerick and Kilrush's new shops. This isn't a case of a big nasty corporation coming in to strip everything and then move out, Tesco has been in Ireland along time and are here to stay, they make money here and are happy to be here, they employ a lot of people.
Irish people have always been a migrant people, the economic circumstances we have at the moment, I know an awful lot of people off working in mines around Perth at the moment, I don't know any of them that would work in a supermarket.0 -
The shops and businesses on the main streets. The electrical shops, clothes shops, bakeries, cafes, bookshops to name but a few.
If a €20million plus turnover per annum behemoth sets up down the road surely those shops could expect to see at least 25% plus drop in sales?
People from all walks of life have faced massive cut-backs and loss of employment without recourse. Tell me why I owe the shopkeepers in Ennis a living at the expense of savings which enable me better provide for my family. Are shopkeepers' families more important/entitled than mine?0 -
Personally I would not object to a new bigger Tesco. A lot of people are saying that local business will suffer, but local business must learn to adapt to the times.
People are saying that footfall in the town centre will drop if Tesco moves. This is not Tescos fault, this is more due to the Chamber of Commerce objecting to Pedestrianisation time and time again. The local businesses are struggling, but they are doing nothing about it themselves. I know there is an issue of rates that must be tackled in Ennis, as they are ridiculously high, but the shops need to change their position and get the Chamber of Commerce to close off O'Connell Street at the very least to traffic.
Look at Galway, the shops on Shop Street are thriving, as it is a pleasurable experience to wander down the shops. Same with the crescent, plenty of room to move from shop to shop. This is what we can expect in the new Tesco Mall if it goes ahead. If this happens, the only way I would go shopping in town centre would be if I had the comfort that is offered by pedestrianisation.
At the moment, the shops in Ennis seem to be doing the same things over and over again and expecting different results!0 -
People from all walks of life have faced massive cut-backs and loss of employment without recourse. Tell me why I owe the shopkeepers in Ennis a living at the expense of savings which enable me better provide for my family. Are shopkeepers' families more important/entitled than mine?
Again price, price, price. Go back and read my posts about the spinoff to the local communities and businesses that small business provides in towns.
You have no argument except ranting on about prices and how much money you will save when a new Tesco comes to town.0 -
I think Tesco in Ennis has been crying out for a revamp for years and the parking there is completely inadequate. The current store is horrible and its only redeeming feature is its staff who are extremely helpful, some of whom have been working in the store for over 30 years. I'd like to see a similar sized store in a better location. Personally, I don't see the need for a huge Tesco Extra store when Dunnes, LIDL, ALDI are already in town.
While I do shop in Tesco and Dunnes, I also make a point of shopping in my local butchers, bakeries, fruit and vegetable shop, bookshop and our local Supervalu store as I know that these smaller businesses support local suppliers and sponsor local sports teams and events in my area. I like the fact that when I shop in my local Supervalu that I can purchase local produce like - Sheep's Cheese from Cratloe and Handmade Chocolate from Tuamgraney.
Tesco doesn't have the best track record when it comes to treating small suppliers if news reports can be believed.Irish suppliers claim Tesco seeks up to €500,000 to stock goods
http://www.irishtimes.com/news/irish-suppliers-claim-tesco-seeks-up-to-500-000-to-stock-goods-1.621890?digest=1Supermarkets accused of using 'bully boy tactics' on farmers to give shoppers a cheaper deal
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1085939/Supermarkets-accused-using-bully-boy-tactics-farmers-shoppers-cheaper-deal.html#ixzz2QpnWuIu8The real cost of Tesco price cuts
http://www.herald.ie/opinion/the-real-cost-of-tesco-price-cuts-27911740.html
Philip Boucher Hayes made a very interesting programme a couple of years ago which examined the 'Tesco Extra Effect' on towns. Studies have found that for every 20 jobs Tesco creates in a town, 30 are lost locally :eek:
I shop in Nenagh on regular basis and in 2010 Tesco Extra opened in the town creating 120 roles. However, within a short period of time other businesses closed down in the town such as Supervalu, O'Connors Supermarket and other smaller businesses. The closure of these stores was extremely disappointing for the town. Supervalu in particular provided a nice range of local produce. From what I can see the only places that seem to be thriving in Nenagh now are Tesco Extra, LIDL and ALDL, even Dunnes seems alot quieter these days. (By the way, like Ennis there are lots of other reasons for business closures - recession, high rents and rates etc. I'm not suggesting that it's all down to Tesco and the other multiples).
As for pricing, I've noticed pricing inconsistencies between Tesco in Nenagh, Kilrush and Ennis. I've purchased items in Tesco Nenagh that were on offer (not the yellow stickers) but the same offer wasn't available in Ennis. One look at the Tesco bargains thread in the Bargain Alerts forum confirms this.
Here is a short extract from the programme I referred to earlier.
Another thing that irritates me about Tesco is their use of the Job Bridge scheme. I think it is fairly cheeky of an organisation that makes a €3.8 billion pre-tax profit (2011) to use the Job Bridge scheme when they are looking for shelf stackers for the Christmas period. Tesco have the financial resources to create proper paid for positions :mad:
http://www.broadsheet.ie/2011/09/16/tesco-want-shelf-stackers-for-christmas/
http://www.thejournal.ie/tesco-stands-behind-jobbridge-advert-228599-Sep2011/
Finally, the price of a product is extremely important but I've found that sometimes it is well worth paying a little extra to speak to someone who is knowledgeable and can advise you on purchases, in the long run you can save yourself money by buying products that actually suit you.
I used to purchase some health food/vitamin supplements online from a company in Galway until I discovered 'The Health Connection' in the Turnpike, the owner really knows her stuff (I believe she is a qualified nutritionist), she takes time to listen to her customers and seems genuinely interested in helping them and providing products that best meets their needs.
Another local business that I feel is worth mentioning is Martin Heaneys, I know that I may be able to purchase a cheaper TV or DVD player in Currys or Harvey Norman but my family have always purchased from Heaneys (30 years +) and their After Sales Service is absolutely brilliant. I remember the late Martin Heaney repairing TVs for us when others would have been more interested in making a sale. Some might say that's not a great business technique but Heaneys seem to have loyal customer base and they've seen bigger and more flash stores come and go. My parents in particular like dealing with them because they'll look after installation and carefully explain how everything works.
Anyway, I suppose the point I'm making is that local businesses do need our support if they're to have a future and while it's accepted that most of us have to shop in the large stores like Tesco/Dunnes etc for our main weekly shop this doesn't prevent us from purchasing things like fresh meat, fish, fruit and vegetables etc from local suppliers, in my experience these items, particularly meat and fish tend to be far superior when purchased locally.0 -
Again price, price, price. Go back and read my posts about the spinoff to the local communities and businesses that small business provides in towns.
You have no argument except ranting on about prices and how much money you will save when a new Tesco comes to town.
I appreciate that this is an emotive subject but surely it should be possible to have a discussion without misrepresenting what the other is saying?
I never said I would save money if a new Tesco comes to town.
I said that Ennis is only for the significantly well-off where items such as blinds, curtains, furniture, computers and much else besides are concerned and that the only difference a new Tesco coming to Ennis would make to me would be that I would no longer stop at Tesco in Coonagh on the way back from Limerick. I have been shopping in various Limerick shops for the mentioned items for about three years now but I still trawl around Ennis and the outlying shops first. It is a depressing trawl. A poster asked me to show links to back up my claims that I save money by buying in Limerick but Ennis shops don't have websites and prices (very often not even on the items in the shops) to make a documented, publicly available, comparison.
You use the word price as if it were a despicable priority to have. Don't you think people who have suffered a very significant financial downturn are handling enough without being made to feel that having to consider the price of something is shameful?
But you are fighting for the life of your business. I respect that. My choices, based indeed on price, are to aid me provide for my family and my family comes first, comes before your business and the contribution local businesses might be making to the community.0 -
I think Tesco in Ennis has been crying out for a revamp for years and the parking there is completely inadequate. The current store is horrible and it's only redeeming feature is its staff who are extremely helpful, some of whom have been working in the store for over 30 years. I'd like to see a similar sized store in a better location. Personally, I don't see the need for a huge Tesco Extra store when Dunnes, LIDL, ALDI are already in town.
While I do shop in Tesco and Dunnes, I also make a point of shopping in my local butchers, bakeries, fruit and vegetable shop, bookshop and our local Supervalu store as I know that these smaller businesses support local suppliers and sponsor local sports teams and events in my area. I like the fact that when I shop in my local Supervalu that I can purchase local produce like - Sheep's Cheese from Cratloe and Handmade Chocolate from Tuamgraney.
Tesco doesn't have the best track record when it comes to treating small suppliers if news reports can be believed.
[/B]
http://www.irishtimes.com/news/irish-suppliers-claim-tesco-seeks-up-to-500-000-to-stock-goods-1.621890?digest=1
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1085939/Supermarkets-accused-using-bully-boy-tactics-farmers-shoppers-cheaper-deal.html#ixzz2QpnWuIu8
http://www.herald.ie/opinion/the-real-cost-of-tesco-price-cuts-27911740.html
Philip Boucher Hayes made a very interesting programme a couple of years ago which examined the 'Tesco Effect' on towns. Studies have found that for every 20 jobs Tesco creates in a town, 30 are lost locally :eek:
I shop in Nenagh on regular basis and in 2010 Tesco Extra opened in the town creating 120 roles. However, within a short period of time other businesses closed down in the town such as Supervalu, O'Connors Supermarket and other smaller businesses. The closure of these stores was extremely disappointing for the town. Supervalu in particular provided a nice range of local produce. From what I can see the only places that seem to be thriving in Nenagh now are Tesco Extra, LIDL and ALDL, even Dunnes seems alot quieter these days. (By the way, like Ennis there are lots of other reasons for business closures - recession, high rents and rates etc. I'm not suggesting that it's all down to Tesco and the other multiples).
As for pricing, I've noticed pricing inconsistencies between Tesco in Nenagh, Kilrush and Ennis. I've purchased items in Tesco Nenagh that were on offer (not the yellow stickers) but the same offer wasn't available in Ennis. One look at the Tesco bargains thread in the Bargain Alerts forum confirms this.
Here is a short extract from the programme I referred to earlier.
Another thing that irritates me about Tesco is their use of the Job Bridge scheme. I think it is fairly cheeky of an organisation that makes a €3.8 billion pre-tax profit (2011) to use the Job Bridge scheme when they are looking for shelf stackers for the Christmas period. Tesco have the financial resources to create proper paid for positions :mad:
http://www.broadsheet.ie/2011/09/16/tesco-want-shelf-stackers-for-christmas/
http://www.thejournal.ie/tesco-stands-behind-jobbridge-advert-228599-Sep2011/
Finally, the price of a product is extremely important but I've found that sometimes it is well worth paying a little extra to speak to someone who is knowledgeable and can advise you on purchases, in the long run you can save yourself money by buying products that actually suit you.
I used to purchase some health food/vitamin supplements online from a company in Galway until I discovered 'The Health Connection' in the Turnpike, the owner really knows her stuff (I believe she is a qualified nutritionist), she takes time to listen to her customers and seems genuinely interested in helping them and providing products that best meets their needs.
Another local business that I feel is worth mentioning is Martin Heaneys, I know that I may be able to purchase a cheaper TV or DVD player in Currys or Harvey Norman but my family have always purchased from Heaneys (30 years +) and their After Sales Service is absolutely brilliant. I remember the late Martin Heaney repairing TVs for us when others would have been more interested in making a sale. Some might say that's not a great business technique but Heaneys seem to have loyal customer base and they've seen bigger and more flash stores come and go. My parents in particular like dealing with them because they'll look after installation and carefully explain how everything works.
Anyway, I suppose the point I'm making is that local businesses do need our support if they're to have a future and while it's accepted that most of us have to shop in the large stores like Tesco/Dunnes etc for our main weekly shop this doesn't prevent us from purchasing things like fresh meat, fish, fruit and vegetables etc from local suppliers, in my experience these items, particularly meat and fish tend to be far superior when purchased locally.
Excellet post Mrs.D.
I only shop in Tesco's in the famous Naas superstore as they have the widest choice. BUT, what drives me mental ( and something You didn't mention in Your post Mrs. D) is the sneaky and conniving way they display the pirce per kilo on their specials. EXAMPLE: 300gms Nescafe original ( my preferred coffee). Normally about €8.50/jar. On special for €6.50 Then look on their shelf for their 200gm jar and see they have a price per kilo advertised on their shelf label, but ( VERY often) there is NO price per kilo for the product on special. I'm not saying it doesn't happen elsewhere ( but i'm not qualified as I don't shop in the opposition) but this conniving ( only word I can think of) tactic by Tesco is a blatant attempt to fool the shopper.0 -
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WOW
Just looked at the clip, and it highlights EVERYTHING I stated in previous posts. Re that Butcher ( Nolan's). IHe has a GREAT name for His products, and I know people from Newbridge and Kilcullen who drive to Naas for His goods. I sincerely hope he isn't driven out of business by this Hypermarket which is about 1.5kms away.0 -
mrs d put in a lot of effort and time into her reply and has made a lot of posts
(mine included)redundant. again thanks for the post0 -
. This is a discussion that has nothing to do with Tesco in Ennis though, it's more to do with your conscience.
Great Euthopian ideals there, I'm picturing Are You Being Served? and Open All Hours, again nothing to do with Tesco Ennis, if anything having people going to 1 large building and interacting with each other there would be a good thing, I know I had many the romance start in Dunnes Mall when I was younger..
Unfortunately you need to read the two books I recommended. Just those two. Then come back to me. Also Mrs.D has excellently highlighted some of these issues below. It is not a simple matter of price and getting small shops to "up their game" as one person put it.
[/B]
http://www.irishtimes.com/news/irish-suppliers-claim-tesco-seeks-up-to-500-000-to-stock-goods-1.621890?digest=1
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1085939/Supermarkets-accused-using-bully-boy-tactics-farmers-shoppers-cheaper-deal.html#ixzz2QpnWuIu8
http://www.herald.ie/opinion/the-real-cost-of-tesco-price-cuts-27911740.html
Philip Boucher Hayes made a very interesting programme a couple of years ago which examined the 'Tesco Extra Effect' on towns. Studies have found that for every 20 jobs Tesco creates in a town, 30 are lost locally :eek:
I shop in Nenagh on regular basis and in 2010 Tesco Extra opened in the town creating 120 roles. However, within a short period of time other businesses closed down in the town such as Supervalu, O'Connors Supermarket and other smaller businesses. The closure of these stores was extremely disappointing for the town. Supervalu in particular provided a nice range of local produce. From what I can see the only places that seem to be thriving in Nenagh now are Tesco Extra, LIDL and ALDL, even Dunnes seems alot quieter these days. (By the way, like Ennis there are lots of other reasons for business closures - recession, high rents and rates etc. I'm not suggesting that it's all down to Tesco and the other multiples).
As for pricing, I've noticed pricing inconsistencies between Tesco in Nenagh, Kilrush and Ennis. I've purchased items in Tesco Nenagh that were on offer (not the yellow stickers) but the same offer wasn't available in Ennis. One look at the Tesco bargains thread in the Bargain Alerts forum confirms this.
Here is a short extract from the programme I referred to earlier.
Another thing that irritates me about Tesco is their use of the Job Bridge scheme. I think it is fairly cheeky of an organisation that makes a €3.8 billion pre-tax profit (2011) to use the Job Bridge scheme when they are looking for shelf stackers for the Christmas period. Tesco have the financial resources to create proper paid for positions :mad:
http://www.broadsheet.ie/2011/09/16/tesco-want-shelf-stackers-for-christmas/
http://www.thejournal.ie/tesco-stands-behind-jobbridge-advert-228599-Sep2011/
Finally, the price of a product is extremely important but I've found that sometimes it is well worth paying a little extra to speak to someone who is knowledgeable and can advise you on purchases, in the long run you can save yourself money by buying products that actually suit you.
I used to purchase some health food/vitamin supplements online from a company in Galway until I discovered 'The Health Connection' in the Turnpike, the owner really knows her stuff (I believe she is a qualified nutritionist), she takes time to listen to her customers and seems genuinely interested in helping them and providing products that best meets their needs.
Another local business that I feel is worth mentioning is Martin Heaneys, I know that I may be able to purchase a cheaper TV or DVD player in Currys or Harvey Norman but my family have always purchased from Heaneys (30 years +) and their After Sales Service is absolutely brilliant. I remember the late Martin Heaney repairing TVs for us when others would have been more interested in making a sale. Some might say that's not a great business technique but Heaneys seem to have loyal customer base and they've seen bigger and more flash stores come and go. My parents in particular like dealing with them because they'll look after installation and carefully explain how everything works.
Anyway, I suppose the point I'm making is that local businesses do need our support if they're to have a future and while it's accepted that most of us have to shop in the large stores like Tesco/Dunnes etc for our main weekly shop this doesn't prevent us from purchasing things like fresh meat, fish, fruit and vegetables etc from local suppliers, in my experience these items, particularly meat and fish tend to be far superior when purchased locally.0 -
Again price, price, price. Go back and read my posts about the spinoff to the local communities and businesses that small business provides in towns.
You have no argument except ranting on about prices and how much money you will save when a new Tesco comes to town.
And what about it?
People don't want to pay a small shop XX% extra so he can pay an accountant or solicitor to stay in business.
Its not all about price, most people will pay €10-€15 for a burger in a nice pub or restaurant some of the time and pay €3-€5 in McDonalds another time.
Likewise I will pay €2 for milk in the corner shop if in a rush or €1.50 in Tesco when possible.
Likewise on a Sunday you might gladly pay through the nose for a plumbing fitting in Woodies DIY if its urgently needed and you can't wait for the cheaper plumbing supplies to open in the morning.
Edge of town shopping centres are a part of modern life, other shops need to adapt.
The same way as the lad making and repairing carts for Donkeys probably had to start selling and repairing cars when they came along.
Its called progress and has been evolving pretty quick for the last few hundred years.0 -
My choices, based indeed on price, are to aid me provide for my family and my family comes first, comes before your business and the contribution local businesses might be making to the community.
Which I presume is what the vast majority of people base their purchasing decisions on; otherwise we wouldn't be having this debate!0 -
I think Tesco in Ennis has been crying out for a revamp for years and the parking there is completely inadequate. The current store is horrible and it's only redeeming feature is its staff who are extremely helpful, some of whom have been working in the store for over 30 years. I'd like to see a similar sized store in a better location. Personally, I don't see the need for a huge Tesco Extra store when Dunnes, LIDL, ALDI are already in town.
While I do shop in Tesco and Dunnes, I also make a point of shopping in my local butchers, bakeries, fruit and vegetable shop, bookshop and our local Supervalu store as I know that these smaller businesses support local suppliers and sponsor local sports teams and events in my area. I like the fact that when I shop in my local Supervalu that I can purchase local produce like - Sheep's Cheese from Cratloe and Handmade Chocolate from Tuamgraney.
Tesco doesn't have the best track record when it comes to treating small suppliers if news reports can be believed.
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http://www.irishtimes.com/news/irish-suppliers-claim-tesco-seeks-up-to-500-000-to-stock-goods-1.621890?digest=1
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1085939/Supermarkets-accused-using-bully-boy-tactics-farmers-shoppers-cheaper-deal.html#ixzz2QpnWuIu8
http://www.herald.ie/opinion/the-real-cost-of-tesco-price-cuts-27911740.html
Philip Boucher Hayes made a very interesting programme a couple of years ago which examined the 'Tesco Extra Effect' on towns. Studies have found that for every 20 jobs Tesco creates in a town, 30 are lost locally :eek:
I shop in Nenagh on regular basis and in 2010 Tesco Extra opened in the town creating 120 roles. However, within a short period of time other businesses closed down in the town such as Supervalu, O'Connors Supermarket and other smaller businesses. The closure of these stores was extremely disappointing for the town. Supervalu in particular provided a nice range of local produce. From what I can see the only places that seem to be thriving in Nenagh now are Tesco Extra, LIDL and ALDL, even Dunnes seems alot quieter these days. (By the way, like Ennis there are lots of other reasons for business closures - recession, high rents and rates etc. I'm not suggesting that it's all down to Tesco and the other multiples).
As for pricing, I've noticed pricing inconsistencies between Tesco in Nenagh, Kilrush and Ennis. I've purchased items in Tesco Nenagh that were on offer (not the yellow stickers) but the same offer wasn't available in Ennis. One look at the Tesco bargains thread in the Bargain Alerts forum confirms this.
Here is a short extract from the programme I referred to earlier.
Another thing that irritates me about Tesco is their use of the Job Bridge scheme. I think it is fairly cheeky of an organisation that makes a €3.8 billion pre-tax profit (2011) to use the Job Bridge scheme when they are looking for shelf stackers for the Christmas period. Tesco have the financial resources to create proper paid for positions :mad:
http://www.broadsheet.ie/2011/09/16/tesco-want-shelf-stackers-for-christmas/
http://www.thejournal.ie/tesco-stands-behind-jobbridge-advert-228599-Sep2011/
Finally, the price of a product is extremely important but I've found that sometimes it is well worth paying a little extra to speak to someone who is knowledgeable and can advise you on purchases, in the long run you can save yourself money by buying products that actually suit you.
I used to purchase some health food/vitamin supplements online from a company in Galway until I discovered 'The Health Connection' in the Turnpike, the owner really knows her stuff (I believe she is a qualified nutritionist), she takes time to listen to her customers and seems genuinely interested in helping them and providing products that best meets their needs.
Another local business that I feel is worth mentioning is Martin Heaneys, I know that I may be able to purchase a cheaper TV or DVD player in Currys or Harvey Norman but my family have always purchased from Heaneys (30 years +) and their After Sales Service is absolutely brilliant. I remember the late Martin Heaney repairing TVs for us when others would have been more interested in making a sale. Some might say that's not a great business technique but Heaneys seem to have loyal customer base and they've seen bigger and more flash stores come and go. My parents in particular like dealing with them because they'll look after installation and carefully explain how everything works.
Anyway, I suppose the point I'm making is that local businesses do need our support if they're to have a future and while it's accepted that most of us have to shop in the large stores like Tesco/Dunnes etc for our main weekly shop this doesn't prevent us from purchasing things like fresh meat, fish, fruit and vegetables etc from local suppliers, in my experience these items, particularly meat and fish tend to be far superior when purchased locally.
A good few of those 120 jobs were staff relocated from other Tesco stores as well. I noticed a good few people from other nearby stores working there instead.0 -
Following all got from company's own site
Tesco Ireland employ over 14,000 people with 142 stores, with 11,000 Irish suppliers and roughly 700 million of goods purchased in the Irish market by them. They use a lot of UK suppliers to cut costs, reported in a good few papers, so easy to find a link.
Dunnes employ 18,000 across 155 stores. Couldn't find how many Irish suppliers they have but their system is not centralized and they use mostly local suppliers.
Supervalu employ 15,000 people directly with 193 stores and 14000 Irish suppliers and with over 1.2 billion of goods purchased in the Irish market by them.
Lidl over 130 or 170 stores (both figures on website higher likely includes Northern Ireland), with only 3200 workers and that includes the North!
http://www.shelflife.ie/article.aspx?id=103 A little bit about Lidl and Irish suppliers.
http://www.rte.ie/news/money/consumer/2012/1210/357761-spotting-irish-own-brand-products-this-christmas/
key quotes:
'Tesco works with 400 Irish suppliers, 300 of which employ fewer than five people.'
Within a few minutes of very basic searching for information, and most from their own websites, it is easy to see why the likes of Tesco and Lidl are bad for Ireland. And another Tesco is not what Ennis needs, some decent parking would be ideal!
I'm a student and work part time and I need to save as much as I can but I would always prefer to shop in Supervalu. This week we did a shop in Supervalu in Tulla and the lady who served us was a joy and the shop was no dearer than Tesco.
Tesco is not cheaper. The meat, fruit and veg are all nicer from Supervalu, albeit a small sample range of only 4 towns where there was both.
Bit of a ramble there.0 -
My choices, based indeed on price, are to aid me provide for my family and my family comes first, comes before your business and the contribution local businesses might be making to the community.
Your selfish viewpoint is of course one you are entitled to hold. But if that credo took hold across the economy how long before someone says to you "sorry mate I have someone who can do your job cheaper"0 -
If you look at the cresent, everything moved out- Its dead handy. M&S applied for planning outside of town but were refused. The council wanted them in town but they refused. Remember at christmas time years ago? Limerick used to be a brilliant place to shop and had a lovely atmosphere at Christmas.
I don't think Tesco will get planning. The council won't risk it. Ennis is a really nice town and we don't want to ruin it. I would be gutted if Ennis turned into something like the centre of Limerick.
But, if a tesco was built out there I would be reluctant to shop there. I do my best to shop locally, but I haven't time or the money. I would still shop in the same places. The one we have is a discrase.0 -
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Your selfish viewpoint is of course one you are entitled to hold. But if that credo took hold across the economy how long before someone says to you "sorry mate I have someone who can do your job cheaper"
I'm afriad that's the viewpoint from a lot of families around. A lot of people have their salaries cut and are on high mortgages so can't afford to shop locally.0
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