Ballymena Discount Day success and BID re-election set a positive tone for the festive season

North Pole-sent, and full of fun and clever ideas, Ballymena BID’s dynamic duo Emma McCrea (Manager) and Clare Moore (Business Engagement Officer) continue on mission, urging shoppers to discover the best of Ballymena businesses this Christmas!

Ballymena has stepped into the festive period with renewed confidence after a hugely successful Ballymena Discount Day and the announcement that Ballymena BID has secured a third term.

The dual boost marks a significant moment for local retailers as the town gears up for its busiest trading weeks of the year.

Record Footfall and Strong Sales on Ballymena Discount Day

On Thursday 6 November, Ballymena town centre businesses once again united for the much-loved annual Ballymena Discount Day. From early morning until stores closed at 9pm, thousands of shoppers from across Northern Ireland—and even as far away as Glasgow—flocked to enjoy special offers and the unique atmosphere the town is known for.

Some participating businesses reported sales increases of up to 50 per cent, while others recorded rises as high as 70 per cent compared to last year. The strong performance reaffirmed Ballymena’s reputation as one of the region’s most vibrant retail destinations.

Aidan Clifford of Sam’s of Ballymena praised the event’s impact, saying:

“We had an amazing day at Sam’s of Ballymena. The atmosphere and volume of visitors from near and far was spectacular. I have been working Ballymena Discount Day for years and it is always one of the best days of the year, but this year was truly something special. Credit has to go to Ballymena BID for their commitment to organising the event every year.”

The day began with 500 eager shoppers gathering at the Harmony Hub to collect Ballymena shopper bags, each hoping to find a Ballymena Gift Card inside. All bags were claimed within the first hour.

Clare Moore, Business Engagement Officer for Ballymena BID, highlighted the scale of enthusiasm:

“Every Discount Day is a celebration of what Ballymena has to offer and we have to thank all businesses for coming together with those amazing offers. This year was incredible. We had visitors from as far as Glasgow come to shop our special day and it was a pleasure to see so many happy shoppers enjoying our town.”

Thomas McKillen, Vice Chair of Ballymena BID and Chair of the BID Marketing Group, added:

“The BID Marketing Group works incredibly hard throughout the year to deliver campaigns and events that support our businesses and keep Ballymena front of mind with shoppers. Discount Day is one of our biggest annual projects and it is always rewarding to see the town so busy and vibrant.

“The response from businesses and visitors this year shows the real strength of the town centre and the impact that comes from working together.”

The success of Discount Day follows a packed autumn schedule delivered by Ballymena BID, including a sell-out fashion show, a popular Halloween programme, and ongoing support for local businesses—all while the BID progressed through its ballot process for a third term.

Ballymena BID Secures Third Term Following Successful Ballot

(L-R) Deputy Mayor of Mid and East Antrim and BID Director, Councillor Tyler Hoey, with BID Chair Roy Smith, Lesley McCaughan (BID Director), Gail Kelly (MEA/BID Advisor), and Carleen Smyth (Director)

Ballymena BID—Northern Ireland’s first Business Improvement District—has officially secured its third term after businesses voted in favour of continuing the scheme for the 2026–2031 period.

The ballot opened in mid-October and closed at 5pm on Thursday 27 November 2025. Results, confirmed by independent scrutineer Civica Election Services and received by Returning Officer and Interim Chief Executive of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Valerie Watts, showed that both required majorities were achieved.

The 25 per cent turnout thresholds by both number and rateable value were also met.

BID Manager Emma McCrea welcomed the endorsement, stating:

“BID is all about businesses coming together with a shared aim of making our town the best it can be. The support shown through this ballot is a clear reflection of that unity and belief in what we can achieve collectively.

“We have already delivered so much together, from major events to day to day support, and securing a third term gives us the platform to keep building on that momentum.

“I want to thank every business that engaged with us throughout the ballot. We are committed to continuing this partnership and delivering even more for Ballymena.”

Deputy Mayor of Mid and East Antrim and BID Director, Councillor Tyler Hoey, with BID Chair Roy Smith.

Ballymena BID Chair Roy Smith added:

“I would like to thank all businesses for their continued confidence in Ballymena BID. Securing a third term is a strong endorsement of the work we deliver and the value the BID brings to the town centre. We are committed to building on this momentum and will continue to champion, support and promote Ballymena in every way we can.

“We look forward to working together with businesses to deliver even more for our town over the next five years.”

The new BID term will begin on 1 April 2026.

Festive Programme Set to Boost Local Trade

As the town moves into its key Christmas trading period, Ballymena BID has launched a full programme of festive entertainment and a major seasonal marketing campaign running from mid-November through to Christmas.

The programme aims to enhance visitor experience and drive footfall for local businesses.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Councillor Jackson Minford, said:

“I am delighted that Council continues to support Ballymena BID in its mission to enhance economic growth and community vibrancy in the town. The BID model continues to exemplify the strength of collaboration between Council and the business community, and we remain committed to fostering this partnership to drive continued economic prosperity in Ballymena.”

Deputy Mayor and new Ballymena BID Board member, Councillor Tyler Hoey, added:

“Council recognises the value of the BID model in attracting investment to our town centres and is keen to see similar successes replicated across the borough, delivering wider economic benefits and fostering community growth. I am delighted to contribute to Ballymena BID’s work and look forward to supporting future town centre initiatives.”

With a renewed mandate and a packed festive calendar, Ballymena BID enters the season poised to support the town through its busiest weeks and into a strong new chapter for 2026 and beyond.