The iconic McAuliffe’s Craft Shop in Dunfanaghy is to close its doors over the coming months after over half a century in business.
Last year, the institution on the seaside resort’s main street, went on the market as a going concern.
However, the owners today announced that their efforts to keep it open have sadly come to an end.
In a post on their Facebook page, they confirmed that ‘after many wonderful years’, the store will be ‘permanently closed’ in the Autumn.
“Anne is retiring after over forty fulfilling years at McAuliffe’s, while Conor is moving on to pursue new opportunities outside of the shop,” the statement read.
“We put significant thought and effort into finding a way for the business to continue in some capacity; however, despite our best efforts, this was not achievable.”
They also took the opportunity to to express their deepest gratitude to ‘incredible team, loyal customers, and supportive suppliers.’
“You all made this journey truly special, and we couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you for the wonderful memories and your unwavering support of our family’s business through the decades.”
For those holding gift vouchers or credit notes, they stressed they will be honoured, but kindly asked that customers use them before Halloween.
McAuliffe’s Craft Shop has been the heart of Dunfanaghy since it was opened there by Anne’s mother, Mary, in 1969. However, its origins began over 100 years ago.
Sweeney’s Fashion House in Falcarragh.
The story began when Cassie Sweeney opened a small drapers shop in Falcarragh, back in 1920.The shop mainly sold household items and other essentials.
It was then her daughter, Mary, who took over the business at the young age of 18. Paying close attention to the trends at the time, she developed the shop by introducing stylish clothing and renaming it ‘Sweeney’s Fashion House’.
After she married Jack McAuliffe, Mary began trialling a ‘pop-up shop’ in Dunfanaghy before eventually moving her entire business over in 1969.
Mary worked alongside her husband Jack and his chemist for many years in what was known as the ‘Tweed & Fashion Shop.’
After Jack and Mary retired, their daughter, Anne, took over the business, and it eventually became ‘McAuliffe’s Craft Shop’. The shop has evolved and transformed many times, but its core values remain unchanged, placing people and community at the centre of all they do.
We wish the family all the best in the future.
Mary and Jack McAuliffe outside their chemist shop in Dunfanaghy.