LOCALS have been left heartbroken after a beloved drapery shop announced its closure after nearly eight decades in the business.
McAndrews Drapery Store in Belmullet, Co Mayo, has confirmed it will be closing its doors soon for the last time after 77 years in business.
The popular drapery store was established by the late Billy McAndrew in 1948, when he was just 23.
He and his wife Sal reared their family above the Main Street store.
The business has been in the family for nearly eight decades, and Billy’s son, owner Liam, explained that it was a difficult decision to call it a day.
Talking to the Western People, he said: “When it’s right for the family to be in business they will be in business, and when it’s right for the family to stop, they will stop,”.
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He added: “While it’s an institution itself, it’s the family who have to make that decision,”
The store confirmed it will host a closing-down sale over the next several weeks before officially bidding farewell to the locals of Belmullet.
Liam and the McAndrew family expressed their gratitude to the local community for all the support they’ve received down through the decades.
He said: “It was that kind of loyalty and support that meant the shop lasted as long as it did.”
Beloved customers were devastated by the closure news, taking to the comments section of the announcement to send their well-wishes to the team and offer kind words in their retirement.
A local customer wrote: “Hi Liam, Carmel and all the staff, so sorry to hear your wonderful shop is closing.
‘END OF AN ERA’
“Main street and the town will never be the same,a shop that brought such character to the town sadly its happening in alot of our towns around the country.
“Auntie Sal and uncle Billy would be so proud of you all, wishing you all the best for the future.”
A customer added: “So sorry to hear this, Remembering many times shopping in there with My Mother, Liam always a gentleman.
“Wishing you all the very best in your next chapter.”
The third person said: “Good luck this was a lovely shop and the staff were always welcoming and friendly and a great place for children’s clothes good health and happiness in the future.”
A heartbroken customer commented: “Sorry to McAndrews closing. Main Street will not be the same without it. Wishing you the best of luck for the future and retirement.”
A local added: “So sorry to hear you’re closing, it’s the end of an era for Belmullet, sad to see for the town but wishing you all the best for a happy and healthy retirement.”
Another customer wrote: “A big loss to the town, good luck to you all.”
date:2026-02-08 16:15:00
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