09/07/2026
Is retail incubation the future of the main street in rural Ireland?
A question I’ve been asking myself: could shared retail or incubation spaces be the next step for independent businesses?
Since January, we’ve had close to 40 enquiries from businesses and individuals looking for space — including some from outside the county.
A lot of these businesses are in services and retail, but they don’t need (or can’t justify) taking on a large unit, expensive fit-outs, and long-term overheads.
Could the future be smaller, flexible, beautifully designed retail units where businesses can start, grow, and build a community under one roof?
Think:
• Glass-fronted retail units
• Independent businesses in one destination
• Shared facilities
• Coffee/social space creating footfall
• A new way to support local entrepreneurs
I believe this is something Laois needs.
Sometimes the answer isn’t filling bigger spaces — it’s rethinking how we use them.
Would love to hear people’s thoughts.