The town has two banks attracting business from surrounding towns and villages where branches have closed in recent years. Businesses in Newcastle West are thriving post-pandemic, but challenges remain.
"Online is ok but it's certainly not the be all and end all. It proved to us that people wanted to come back into the store, and touch things, try them on and get an opinion. That's a core part of our business, the personal service that we can give." Having an online presence wasn't essential for operations at Ela Maria, but online connectivity is vital for The Yard - a new workspace in Newcastle West.
Back on the square in Newcastle West is Sonas Healthfoods, which traded during the pandemic and was very busy. "We deal with a lot of Irish suppliers but a huge amount of our food products and remedies and supplements are coming in from the UK. The delays and the lack of preparedness on that chain really affected us," she said.Ms Bennis's business outlook is positive.