Minister of State for Training and Skills, Ciaran Cannon T.D., today accompanied Google on a visit to BellaDonna bridal business in the Liosbaun Business Park, Galway. The bridal business which has been online since 2006 was highlighted by Google as a good example of a Galway business succeeding online. “I congratulate BellaDonna on its initiative and foresight in utilising the internet to develop its business. In these challenging economic times it is vital that SMEs explore all options and technologies to promote their products and services. I know that BellaDonna’s success story will encourage other companies here in Galway to use the internet to expand their businesses and I am confident that at the next eCounty Awards Galway will achieve a much higher ranking.”
Google recently revealed Ireland’s top eCounties in its inaugural eCounty Awards. The Awards listing ranked the 26 counties of Ireland by the number of businesses growing online and contributing to future economic grow and Galway ranked in 12th position which was much lower than expected according to local Galway woman and Googler Michelle Beirne.
“There are so many talented entrepreneurs and great business people in Galway who could be selling their products and services very easily to consumers throughout the rest of Ireland and even the world. I want Galway businesses to learn how easy it can be to get online and grow their business.”
BellaDonna owner Frances McElwain had this advice to offer other Galway businesses thinking about setting up online; “ We set up online right from the beginning because we realised that brides research everything for their big day online. We had a great web design company called Western Web based inTuam who helped us to design a user friendly website, which is important. Also I would recommend that business owners constantly refresh the content on their website as its the same principle of keep your physical shop window looking new and inviting. Finally promote your website online, for us it’s been money well spent.”
As part of Google’s visit to Galway Michelle and her colleagues also hosted a free event for Galway businesses on the importance of getting online at the Radission Blu hotel. Google experts were on hand to answer questions and provide helpful tips on how to make a success of having your business online.