'After 33 wonderful years' beloved Portlaoise gift shop is shutting down
Another shop on Portlaoise Main Street is shutting down this summer
A third longstanding Portlaoise Main Street shop in as many months has announced it is closing down.
There is disappointment for customers at the news that the longstanding gift shop Treasures, at 72 Main Street opposite Portlaoise court house, is shutting up shop.
Earlier this summer, AJ Flynn's menswear closed, followed shortly after by Alo Donegan’s.
Treasures proprietor, Portlaoise woman Louise Aldritt made her announcement on Sunday, to a huge reaction of well wishers on social media.
“After 33 wonderful years, it is time to say goodbye. It has been an absolute pleasure to look after all of our lovely customers through the years.
“Thank you for your loyalty, support, friendship and all the laughter along the way. Thinking of Wynne who was with me when we first set up this dream.
“Thanks to all the wonderful staff who were also part of the journey. Treasures will be closing its doors on 29th August 2026”.
She is wished well in her retirement by hundreds of customers in Facebook comments.
“Ah, Louise, I am so very sorry to read this news. 33 years is a long time but I have to say from when you and Gwen (RIP) opened ‘Treasures’ on the Main Street it was always my favourite shop to call into and I would never come out of the shop without something very different and special. The very best of luck to you, Louise, I will call into you before you close x” one loyal shopper said.
Another commenter urged people to shop local.
“Sad to see so many of the old established shops disappearing from our Main Street. Places like AJ Flynns, Donegans and so many other independent businesses gave towns their character and were part of the community for generations.
“It’s a sign of the times. Rents continue to rise, the population keeps growing, yet more people are buying cheaper, lower-quality items online instead of supporting local businesses.
“If there’s a shop in your town that you value, call in when you can. Even buying one small item makes a difference. If we don’t support our independent stores today, we may not have them tomorrow.”