Sligo business leader Christine Dolan has been named Business All-Star Shopping Centre Industry Business Person 2024 by the All-Ireland Business Foundation.

Christine is the Centre Manager of Quayside Shopping Centre located in the heart of Sligo Town.

For almost two decades, Quayside Shopping Centre has consistently upheld the highest standards of trust, commitment, performance, and customer centricity.

Distinguished by its unique combination of open streets and covered malls, Quayside Shopping Centre is meticulously designed to cater to the needs of contemporary retailers while ensuring that customers enjoy a relaxed, secure, and convenient shopping experience.

Much of the centre’s welcoming atmosphere is down to the direction of Christine Dolan who has put local customers at the very heart of the Sligo business.

Her innovative marketing, customer engagement, and tenant relations strategies have distinguished Quayside as an industry leader, offering a diverse shopping experience.

Business All-Star Shopping Centre Industry Business Person 2024 accreditation comes in recognition of her performance in her role as Centre Manager.

Announcing the news of Christine’s achievement, Deputy Chair of AIBF’s Adjudication Board, Kieran Ring, said:

“I am delighted to acknowledge Christine Dolan, Centre Manager of Quayside Shopping Centre, as the Business All-Star Shopping Centre Industry Business Person Of The Year 2024. With her extensive experience and deep understanding of retail, Christine’s leadership has made quayside a vibrant retail hub. Her innovative marketing, customer engagement, and tenant relations strategies have distinguished Quayside as an industry leader, offering a diverse shopping experience.”

Reacting to the news of her company’s achievement, Quayside Centre Manager Christine Dolan said:

“At Quayside Shopping Centre, we have always strived to uphold the highest standards of excellence, driven by a commitment to our customers and community. This recognition underscores the dedication of our entire team and reaffirms our commitment to delivering an exceptional shopping experience in the heart of Sligo. Together, we will continue to innovate, engage, and serve our loyal customers, ensuring that Quayside remains a vibrant hub for our community. Thank you to the AIBF for this meaningful recognition.”

Managing Director of the All-Ireland Business Foundation Kapil Khanna said: The accreditation, which is now held by over 650 firms, is needed by the thousands of small and medium businesses which operate to their own standards but have nothing to measure them by.

He said: We evaluate a company’s background, trustworthiness and performance, and we speak to customers, employees and vendors. We also anonymously approach the company as a customer and report back on the experience. The business goes through at least two interviews and is scored on every part of the process against set metrics.

Article Published by All Ireland Business Times 

 

Shopping centres serve as more than just places to shop; they are social hubs that bring communities together. Among the amenities that enhance the shopping experience, family rooms stand out as vital spaces that promote inclusivity, convenience, and well-being for families. These designated areas cater to the needs of parents and caregivers, offering a range of amenities that make outings with children more manageable and enjoyable.

Shopping Centres have a responsibility to meet customer expectations and adapt accordingly. By providing a safe and comfortable space for all members of the community, family rooms promote social inclusion and ensure that everyone can participate in the shopping experience, without barriers.

Convenience is another significant aspect of family rooms given the challenges of navigating crowded centres with young children. Family rooms offer a convenient place for nappy changing, breastfeeding and bottle feeding.

By catering to the needs of families, shopping centres can attract a loyal customer base and differentiate themselves from competitors. Additionally, positive experiences in family-friendly environments are likely to lead to repeat visits and word-of-mouth recommendations, ultimately driving foot traffic and increasing revenue for retailers.

An example of this type of project in the community is the recently installed family room at Swords Pavilions Shopping Centre. Opened in May 2023 and located on the ground floor, it has created an environment for privacy and has received excellent customer feedback.

The Bannon Property Management team works with shopping centres across Ireland, to support them in enhancing the shopping experience and promoting community well-being. By providing a welcoming space with essential amenities and fostering a sense of inclusion and support, these facilities contribute to making outings with children more manageable and enjoyable for families.

 

Author:               Aoife McGovern, Surveyor, Bannon

Date:                  26th February 2024