ONE of Ireland’s most iconic shops is to close down after almost 70 years in business.
McClean’s Shop in Malin, Co Donegal is a landmark for many visiting the tranquil Inishowen town.
Complete with on-street petrol pumps, the shop was a stopping point for many en route to visit Ireland’s most northerly point at Malin Head.
Now the McClean family has announced that they are to move their business in a new direction.
Thankfully, the adjoining bar will remain open but will have some small changes to opening hours.
A notice posted on the business’ Facebook page revealed that the shop and petrol pumps will close on November 17th next.
The post was met with huge sadness by locals and visitors alike who thanked owners Enda and Collette McClean for their service to the community.
Many remarked that it will be the pic and mix sweets which will be dearly missed by the many children who visited the shops over the years!
A spokesperson for the business said “We have loved serving the community over the years and we’re really sad to see it go but we have decided to move our business in a new direction bringing lots of exciting change in 2025.
“Unfortunately, this will also mean the loss of the petrol and diesel pumps and we apologise for the inconvenience this will cause but current regulations and legislation makes it unviable for them to continue.”
The McClean family and their staff said the decision to close has been a very difficult one.
The spokesperson added “This has been a very difficult decision for us but we feel it is vital in securing the future of our business and we’re looking forward to an exciting year ahead.
“We appreciate your understanding and look forward to your continued support.”
Customers were left gutted by the decision, with many hailing it as the “end of an era” for the popular spot.
One said: “Sorry to read this, one of the few authentic shop’s left. It’s a pity things have to change sometimes. Best wishes on your future plans.”
‘SHOCK AND SADNESS’
Another added: “End of an era sadly for the shop, but exciting new beginnings ahead. Best of luck in the new ventures.”
A third said: “Every success in your future but we will surely miss sending the kids out for sweets from the bar on our holidays.
“The McClean family are one of the nicest people you could ever meet and can wait til we are up again to visit.”
Another told how they “can’t help” but express their “shock and sadness” at the news of the closure.
They said: “It will be the end of an era that I was born into.
“I guess there will be more changes in our lives in the next few years too, but losing my local shop is a fairly pivotal point just now.
“Malin has lost so much in the last few years, but be assured that all of us who consider ourselves part of the Malin community will do our best to keep your business going.”
ANOTHER CLOSURE
Meanwhile, popular Irish pub Blairs Inn in Cloghroe, Co Cork have confirmed that they will close this weekend after four decades in business.
Blairs Inn was a family-owned, award-winning pub and restaurant near Blarney, Co Cork.
They won the Georgina Campbell’s Pub of the Year Award in 2013 and the Happy Place Award in 2021.
Anne and John Blair took over the award-winning pub in 1986, followed by their sons Duncan and Richard in 2005.
The owners wrote on Instagram: “Sadly Sunday the 3rd November will be the final day of this particular chapter of the story of the mighty little country pub.
“Here’s to the great days behind us and to the hopefully even better days ahead.
“Thank you, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support over the years. It’s been one hell of a ride.”