Two long-established family-run shoe shops in Limerick and Clare are set to close their doors after decades in business.
Central Shoes, which is located on Bedford Row in Limerick city and in Kilrush, Co Clare, has confirmed that both stores will close as the owners prepare to pursue a new business venture.
The Kilrush shop has been open for more than 30 years, while the Limerick store has been trading for almost two decades.
Owners Niamh Whelan and Dion Zerafa announced their stores closure this week.
In a recent statement, they said via The Irish Examiner: "This choice was not made lightly, but as business owners we have reached a point where we are ready to embrace a new challenge and pivot toward a fresh venture."
"While it's not an easy decision, we're incredibly grateful for the support we've received from our wonderful customers over the years," they continued.
The business shared a post to Facebook to thank customers, friends and family members who have "been part of the Central Shoes journey."
A clearance sale is currently taking place at both outlets ahead of their planned closure.
According to the Irish Examiner, almost 20 businesses have closed in Limerick city over the past year.
The news comes amid ongoing concerns about the state of the retail sector in Limerick city. A GeoDirectory Commercial Buildings Report found that Limerick had the highest commercial vacancy rate in Munster at the end of last year.
