Xpose Your Business
B4b exhibition gives a glimpse to an exciting future for business in Ballymun
It would be fair to say that Ballymun has suffered more than most from the recession and lack of investment. However that may all be about to change. The Civic Centre was the venue earlier this month for a business exhibition that showcased a number of exciting emerging businesses, established businesses and pending developments in Balymun. ‘Xpose Your Business’ was an opportunity to hear from Decathlon and their new super store being built beside Ikea which is due to open in the spring of 2020. Lidl Ireland were there to share information about their new development which will see a new super market, retail, office and 364 student accommodation units built in Ballymun. Transport Infrastructure Ireland were there along with Metolink to present on the light rail link that will pass underground through Ballymun with stations at the old shopping centre site and Northwood, Santry.
Ballymun entrepreneur Deborah Crowley Funky Monkey Foods, added further spice to the occasion as she spoke about building her curry sauce business from her domestic kitchen to supplying BWG Foods and Aldi. Brian Staunton GM for Musgrave Market Place, Ballymun spoke about the family business’s history in Ballymun and how a recent €2m investment in their store was a statement that they will be in Ballymun for many more years to come. One of the main sponsors for the evening Dublin City Council brought along their Procurement Team to meet with small businesses on pitching for DCC contracts.
The Lord Mayor Paul McAuliffe opened the event stating that ‘the investment by Decathlon and Lidl was a great boost to the area, creating a number of jobs locally’ Robert Murphy Chairman of B4b stated that the ‘impending Metrolink will be a game changer for Ballymun opening up significant economic opportunities in the future’
There really was a great buzz with lots of new connections being made and visitors enjoying some lovely food supplied by Nan’s Signature Catering. The network has come a long way since its official launch in March 2017 says facilitator Catherine Whelan. ‘Membership is diverse with food, tech, retail, consultancy, professional services and the entertainment industry strongly represented. We have nearly 50 members now’
Liam Barry Economic Development Officer with DCC stated ‘it was important that we build on the momentum generated by B4b and the investment by Lidl and Decathlon. Hopefully this is just the start of things to come’
There was a sense of renewed optimism and that this was just the start of things to come. If you would like to find out more about B4b email Catherine info@b4b.ie
