Welcome to the Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce.
We’re a dynamic group of entrepreneurs, small business owners, large corporations and passionate individuals – all united under one common purpose: the thriving success of Killarney.
Our mission is to foster the economic prosperity of our region while simultaneously showcasing the unrivalled natural beauty, charm and rich traditions of Killarney.
Member Highlights
Retail opportunities being snapped up in Killarney
There is currently a real vibrancy in the commercial life of Killarney with retail premises coming on the market for letting purposes being snapped up at a great pace, a meeting of the town’s business community has been told.
The imminent opening of a new store by beauty and wellness giant Rituals, at 35 Main Street, is a clear indication of just how attractive Killarney is to potential commercial investors and that confidence is mirrored throughout the town and its outskirts where vacant premises are greatly sought after, Donal Culloty of REA Coyle & Culloty told a Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce luncheon.
Outside of the significant Rituals development, he referred, in particular, to progress that has been made in the retail sector in recent weeks with the opening of three new stores on New Street alone – a bakery, an equine supplies shop and a specialist nail bar – which is an indication of the interest being shown by investors.
Mr Culloty revealed that the old Aldi store at Deerpark has found a new tenant, the two new commercial units adjacent to the new Aldi will soon be occupied while, for the first time ever, all the available units at the Reeks Gateway development are now occupied.
Mr Culloty informed the Chamber of Tourism and Commerce members that the market is extremely positive and there is a very strong interest in any units that become available in the town centre.
He said while there are vacant offices all over the country, there is a serious shortage of such professional services facilities in Killarney where demand completely outstrips supply.
While there has been an obvious shift to online shopping since the pandemic, people still enjoy coming to Killarney where they are guaranteed a good retail offering and a great shopping atmosphere.
In recent weeks also, a spacious new craft jewellery store has opened on College Street and there are new food premises about to open their doors on New Street and College Street.
Meanwhile, National Parks and Wildlife Service Divisional Manager, Eamonn Meskell, told the Chamber members that planning permission has been sought for the creation of an exciting new pathway and cycleway development from Torc to the back end of Dinis on the N71.
He said the elevated route will be iconic and it will greatly enhance the whole Killarney experience for locals and visitors.
There is also a plan in place for Knockreer House – where the roof has already been repaired – to extend the footprint to the property and its fabulous Italian gardens.
Mr Meskell praised the involvement of the local community in helping to manage the national park.
He said the hours put in by the Mountain Meitheal volunteers has been phenomenal and the amount of great conservation and biodiversity work that they do is incredible.
In the last two years the NPWS with the help of the Mountain Meitheal has cleared 2,000 acres of rhododendron from woodland and associated habitats.
20,000 acres of woodland had been under stress because of invasive plant and deer grazing the saplings but the park nursery grew 30,000 acorns that are now being planted in the woodlands.
There are plans for another polytunnel this year to plant 60,000 seeds which will be ready to go next year and in 2026.
Mr Meskell revealed that Killarney National Park attracts 1.7 million visitors each year, with 130,000 seeing Muckross House and 60,000 visiting Killarney House and Gardens.
He said it is important to balance that footprint with conservation measures that are planned and implemented.
Those in attendance at the Chamber lunch were also briefed on the launch of the new Anú Spa in The Brehon which is a collaboration with a family-run business in North Kerry that grows its own botanicals and harvests seaweed from the Atlantic shores to create an exceptional skincare line.
The products will be showcased at a special wellness morning in The Brehon on September 29th.
In other developments, Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce has held its annual general meeting with Johnny McGuire and Padraig Treacy remaining on as co-presidents and the following steering committee chairpersons continuing in their roles:
- Membership and Management: Finbarr Kennelly
- Brand Communication and Reputation Management: Niamh O’Shea,
- Advocacy: Niall Kelleher
- Events: Dermot Healy
- Retail: Anthony Walsh
- Sustainability: Mike Stack
Chamber Luncheon
Driving Prosperity: Our Actions, Your Success
At Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce, we are more than a chamber – we are a vibrant network, a stage for cultural celebrations, and a powerful advocate for your business interests. Our networking events present golden opportunities to forge valuable connections, stay ahead of industry trends, and grow your business in a supportive community. In partnership with other organisations, we proudly host some of Ireland’s most vibrant and exciting festivals.
These festivals not only unite our community but also provide significant visibility and support to our local businesses, fostering a thriving atmosphere unique to Killarney. We are dedicated to advocating for your business at all levels, ensuring your needs are heard and addressed. We firmly believe in the power of partnerships in shaping public policies and influencing decisions that lead to our collective success.
Our Partnerships: United for Growth
We believe that our strategic partnerships give us collaborative strength. We are proud to partner with organisations like Kerry County Council, the Kerry Tourism Industry Federation, Fáilte Ireland, and the Irish Hotels Federation, Kerry.
Alongside a variety of local businesses, community initiatives, and regional organisations, we work collaboratively to bolster business success and community welfare. Each partnership brings unique perspectives and invaluable resources to our network, helping to shape a prosperous and vibrant local economy.
Whether it’s advocating for our members’ needs, delivering exceptional events, or fostering sustainable tourism, these collaborations are at the heart of our shared success.
Join the Chamber: Empower Your Business
At the Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce, we understand the unique and dynamic environment in which you do business. We value the vibrant blend of tourism, retail, and commerce that defines our region.
Our community of tourism providers, business owners, and professionals are united under a common goal – to champion economic growth and prosperity in our region. Our strength, and that of the broader business community, relies on the active involvement of all our members.
Benefits of Joining
Membership of the Chamber offers a broad spectrum of benefits tailored to help your business thrive. We’re committed to supporting every sector through the opportunities and challenges they face. Our membership not only supports local enterprises but also enhances the visibility and reach of our tourism sector, fostering a thriving community and an enchanting destination for visitors.
From networking events that connect you with industry peers, to inclusion in our website listings that enhance your business visibility, your membership opens the door to opportunities. Participate in our world-famous festivals, benefit from our advocacy services, and leverage our marketing expertise to spotlight your business.
Whether you’re an owner-managed business, a growing company, a large corporation, or a key player in the tourism industry, we offer a variety of membership tiers to suit your needs.
Remember, this isn’t just about joining a Chamber; it’s about being part of a vibrant community that’s shaping the future of Killarney and the southwest of Ireland.