Today, we had a few very interesting site visits that opened our eyes to common hardships in businesses. We first visited with Tyrconnell Tribune, which is the local newspaper publisher in this part of the country. They cover a small portion of the country, but they ensure that their paper engages directly with each county and community that it covers. This is one way they build trust and reputation. They have photographs and stories each week about each town, which draws everyone in to buy it, rather than just certain groups. They also include different kinds of information, such as “in memory” sections and flashback sections, where they include an entry from years ago.
We also met with McNutts of Downings afterwards. We learned a lot about the ups and downs of their textile business. They have had to shift their market a few times due to issues in politics, fashion, and the economy. Currently, they have gone back to their roots and produce wools, like scarves, hats, blankets, etc. In their past, they have manufactured fabrics for different major brands and also produced for designers as well. Within their industry right now, they build trust and reputation with their customers through the storytelling of their brand, offering high-quality products, and practicing traditional craftsmanship. Their products may be a bit pricier than other competitors’, but they are high-quality products that are sourced from natural materials that will last a lifetime.
The shared rural location of these two companies serves as a core element in their brand identities because they both foster a love for local community engagement. They value the people in their surrounding community and the personal touch of engaging with locals. Overall, I think that each of these two companies plays a specific role in the county of Donegal that helps the community come together as a whole.
After our site visits today, we also headed over to Murder Hole Beach, where it was insanely windy!! We had to walk a bit to get there, and I had a TON of sand in my shoes, but I would say it was worth it because the views at the beach were stunning. The waves were completely brutal, which matches the name! I also saw a cow crossing the walkway right in front of me, which I found super cool.
