Laois locals have been shocked by the announcement of the closure of two popular local businesses.

Eamonn Bracken Menswear in Portarlington and Dunne's Hardware and Antique Furniture Shop in Abbeyleix have both announced their closures, after serving their communities for decades.

Liam and Fiona Dunne have ran their Abbeyleix business for over 43 years, and are a popular establishment for all your furniture needs. Since its opening, the business has operated from the site of the old cinema in Abbeyleix.

Pictured: Dunne's Hardware and Furniture, Abbeyleix. Photo: Google Maps

"It is with mixed emotions that we wish to formally announce the sale of our property for development," the couple announced.

"We do not have an exact closing date but we will begin to wind down the Business in the meantime.

"We have loved serving our community but welcome the next phase of our life. We truly appreciate your loyal custom over the years," the couple said.

The Dunnes do not have an exact date closing date set in stone yet, however they have began winding down their business in the mean time.

"There will be plenty of of bargains in store- as usual!" they joked.

"We hope you continue to support us to the end. We will keep you updated. Thank you to all," they finished.

Over 100 people paid tribute to the business owners, thanking them for their hard work in Abbeyleix for over four decades.

"Liam and Fiona Dunne close their doors with the same grace and generosity that defined their time in business," one well-wisher wrote.

"Trading from the old Milo Cinema, they kept alive a place filled with memories for generations in Abbeyleix, turning it into a hub of help, kindness and community spirit. Their retirement truly marks the end of an era in the town’s story. Wishing Liam and Fiona every happiness, fulfilment, and well-earned rest in the years ahead as they begin this new chapter together," they said.

"Heartbroken for meself, delighted for 'ye. Great memories and stories to tell from all those years," another person said.

"I wish you all the best in whatever you decide to do next. May you both make many beautiful memories together in the future. Goin to really miss the banter though. Will never really forget "the shop" though, because everywhere I look in our house, shed or garden, there's a memory of Bridgeweld / Dunnes Hardware in it," the person finished.

Other well wishers remarked on the 'iconic and wonderful business' that they are sad to see close, however all wish Fiona and Liam the best in their retirement.

On the other side of Laois, Portarlington's Eamonn Bracken and his wife Bernie have decided to close Eamon Bracken's Menswear, and enjoy their well earned retirement. 

"After many happy and memorable years, the time has come for Eamonn Brackens Menswear to close its doors as Eamonn and Bernie step into a well earned retirement," Mr Bracken announced.

Pictured: Eamonn Bracken Menswear on Portarlington's main street. Photo: Google Maps

"Opened in 1981, the shop has been more than just a place to buy clothes. Over the years, we have had the privilege of dressing generations of men, from their first communion suits to their wedding day, and everything in between," he said.

"We've watched families grow, shared countless stories, and enjoyed plenty of good craic in the shop along the way."

The business thanked all of their wonderful staff, past and present, for their loyalty, dedication and friendship over the years.

"A huge thank you goes to our loyal customers, whose continued support made coming to work such a pleasure and made this journey so special," Mr Bracken said.

While many are disappointed to see the business' closing, there is a silver lining to this news.

"While this chapter is coming to a close, we are excited to share that Brackens Wedding Suit Attire and Suit Rental will be opening in the coming weeks," Mr Bracken said.

"It has truly been a privilege to serve such wonderful customers and while we will miss seeing you all, we are looking forward to enjoying retirement, spending time with family, and taking life a little easier.

"The store will be closing in the coming weeks, and we hope to see many familiar faces before then," Mr Bracken finished, thanking the community on behalf of himself and Bernie.

Over 200 comments were made on social media, expressing sadness at the news.

"You and your shop will be greatly missed. The personal attention your customers always had is something from days gone by... it just doesn't happen anywhere else anymore. Whether I was buying a suit or a pair of socks, the service was always brilliant," one user wrote.

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"You'll be so so missed. This is a massive loss to the town and many surrounding towns too. However, it's a deserved break, thank you for the years," another person said.

Best wishes to Eamonn and Bernie, and Liam and Fiona in their retirements!