Call to support local retailers as ‘treasured’ store closes
Fitzgerald Electrical Expert Store on Grand Parade has closed after nearly 90 years in business.
Founded in 1924, the family-run shop prided itself on being a leading supplier of electrical appliances in Cork and throughout the surrounding area.
The store was the first to show colour television in Cork in Mar 1970.
Senator Deirdre Clune (Fine Gael) said she was saddened by the closure.
“This is an extremely difficult time for the family who have a long and proud tradition of trading in their prominent position on Grand Parade.”
Describing it as “a much treasured part of Cork’s retail community,” Ms Clune said she had no doubt that there are many reasons for the decision to close, not least the punishing economic climate Ireland’s retail sector is presently experiencing.
“However, the continuing growth of online retail and large out-of-town warehouse-type shopping has played a large part in the closure of many smaller local businesses,” Ms Clune maintained.
She said most of these large units are not owned by indigenous companies, so people should be considering where they make their purchases in these challenging times.
“If you want local shops on your high street instead of big retailers then people must buy locally and support businesses in their area. This will save local jobs and preserve the strong retail presence in Cork city centre,” the senator said.
“An inviting retail atmosphere has positive knock-on effects with regard to tourism and general footfall in restaurants and shops in the area. The city council has invested and improved the appearance of the Grand Parade to make it an attractive area.”
“There are issues on the Grand Parade, some buildings have been left idle and the variety of shops is not diverse enough to encourage shoppers to visit there instead of the big shopping centres located on the outskirts,” she added.
