Westport Chamber announces launch of “Love Clew Bay Card” to boost west Mayo economy

The Westport Chamber of Commerce has announced it is at an advanced stage in developing a new local prepaid gift card initiative, the Love Clew Bay Card, set to launch later this summer.

The Love Clew Bay Card is designed to support and strengthen the local economy by encouraging spending within the Clew Bay region. The card will offer customers a flexible and secure way to shop across a wide range of participating businesses, including retail, hospitality, leisure, and professional services.

Recognising Clew Bay as a natural and interconnected economic area, the Chamber believes the initiative will deliver tangible benefits to towns, villages, and communities throughout West Mayo.

“This card is about keeping money local and supporting the businesses that are the backbone of our communities,” said a spokesperson for the Chamber. “It gives people real choice while ensuring their spending directly benefits the area.”

The initiative follows the success of similar local gift card schemes introduced in over sixteen towns across Ireland including Mullingar, Kilkenny and Tipperary. All towns say the cards have proven effective in increasing footfall, attracting new customers, and raising the profile of participating businesses.

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A key advantage of the Love Clew Bay Card is its eligibility under the Government’s Small Benefit Exemption Scheme, allowing employers to provide up to €1,500 tax-free to employees via the card. This positions it as an attractive option for businesses seeking meaningful, local corporate gifts.

Unlike national gift cards, the Love Clew Bay Card can only be spent with participating businesses in the Clew Bay region, ensuring that every euro spent directly supports the local economy.

The Chamber emphasised that the initiative is more than just a retail tool—it represents a long-term investment in the sustainability and vibrancy of the region’s economy.

Local businesses across Clew Bay from Clare Island to Achill (including Louisburgh, Murrisk, Aughagower, Newport and Mulranny) are currently being invited to participate in the scheme ahead of its official launch.

Expressions of interest – stating your business type, should be sent by email to: loveclewbay@gmail.com