The end of an era - Nallys announce sale of physical shop as business moves online
One of Mullingar's oldest retailers is selling its home of over 50 years and moving entirely online.
In a post on social media this week, the Nally family, proprietors of the Dominick Street institution, Rochforts, announced that it was selling its physical shop and the adjoining premises.
The Nally family have ran Rochforts since 1970 when Tom Nally bought the business from his aunt Katie Mahon.
“It's the end of an era but the beginning of a very new, different and exciting one for Rochforts as we know it,” the Nally's posted on Rochforts Facebook page.
“After many years of trading on Dominick Street, Rochforts is preparing to transition to an online store. It is our aim to continue our business virtually with three new websites: Mullingar Music, Religious Gifts, and Souvenirs Ireland. These will serve both domestic and international customers.
“As a family we would like to thank the people of Mullingar for making Rochforts so successful down through the years. We have been blessed with so many kind and loyal customers, many of whom have become good friends to our family.
“We must also thank the many loyal and hard working staff that have been with us through thick and thin, some who are virtually family at this stage.
“Our physical shop and adjoining premises will be sold at auction in the coming months and we will transition to an online only sales strategy.
“We would also like to thank our many suppliers, both locally and throughout the country who have worked with us so diligently to date.
"Remember - "If we don't have it you don't need it!"
The Nallys urged customers “to call in during the coming months and share your stories of Rochforts, we would love to record them for the future!”
“And remember this is not goodbye but good luck!! Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.
Tomás, Avril, Tom, Sheila and all the Nally family.”
Speaking to the Westmeath Examiner today, Tomás Nally said that he and the rest of his family have been deeply heartened by the response from the people of Mullingar in the days since they made the announcement on Tuesday.
See next week's Westmeath Examiner for a full interview with Tomás.