Connolly Jewellers Tralee Will Close After 70 Years As Owners Announce Retirement
CONNOLLY Jewellers on Bridge Street, Tralee will close its doors this Autumn as the owners, Norma and Martin Hartnett, have announced their decision to take a well-earned early retirement.
Since being established in the 1950s by Norma’s parents, Gerry and Birdie, many people and families will associate Connolly Jewellers with happy memories.
Engagement Rings, Wedding Rings, the first ear-piercing, gifts for Holy Communion, Confirmation and Graduation, St Christopher for the first trip away after college – a cycle of life seen through the window of a small shop.
Martin Hartnett, who has been at the helm with his wife Norma Connolly for 31 years, said “Connolly Jewellers has been a big part of the retail landscape in Tralee for the past 70 years. During that time Norma’s parents and all who ever worked here always gave 100% to every aspect of the business. The joy when a new piece of jewellery is purchased and an old piece with sentimental value is revived has been the best part of the journey. We will always value the time we had and it has been an honour to add to the experience of our customers.
“The current retail climate, albeit difficult at present, has had no bearing on our decision to retire. There were ups and downs over the past 70 years. I think keeping your buying right, keeping an eye on your costs and having a strong service ethic helps you overcome the challenges. Simply, standing in the same place six days a week for over 30 years has taken its toll on the body and it’s time for a rest.”
The impending closure of the shop is unlikely to have an impact on the careers of the current staff who are due to return to college in September.
Customers who have made bookings or have items on deposit will be contacted individually. There will be an eight-week window during which outstanding repaired items can be collected and all watch guarantees will be backed-up by the brand itself and the distributors in Ireland.
Gerry and Birdie are the heroes of this story having started a business in the 1950s when times were tough, provided a template to keep a family business thriving and always putting the customer first.
“As regards the closing of the shop, I think that they will be happy that it has been such a large part of life in Tralee for so long,” said Martin Hartnett.
There is a wide selection of exquisite stock that will be available to purchase with 30% to 50% discounts for the final eight weeks of trading.
