Popular Limerick outdoor store to close as owner retires
Well-known shop has served city for over 45 years
ONE of the most well-known shops in Limerick city centre is to close with its owner taking a well-earned retirement.
The shutters will fall on the US Bargain Store in Lower Cecil Street at the end of March.
It comes with Ann Conway, who founded the shop more than 45 years ago with her late husband John, enjoys some more time to herself.
Ann, who is originally from Rathbane on the southside, said: “I'll be 70 in May. I've one granddaughter. she is five in May. So I'm looking forward to spending time with her in my retirement.”
The US Bargain Store sells outdoor clothing and other gear needed for those spending time in the wild.
“We've always sold ex-army stuff. Parkas, boots, schoolbags, tents, rucksacks, sleeping bags. Cooker, workwear, everything really,” said Ann.
US Bargain Stores has traded in Lower Cecil Street for 38 years, and for seven years before this, it was located in Ellen Street.
It would have been known to generations of Limerick people as 'The Army Shop'.
John, who Ann set up the store with sadly died in January 2018.
Since Ann said she is closing the store, many customers have called into her and offered their best wishes.
“Our customers have been very good. We have had a nice number of calls. I've an awful lot of loyal customers and they are sad to see it go. They've always been our backbone. Always kept us going. It's the end of an era,” she said.
Between now and when the shop closes, there is 50% off every item.
In the coming weeks, Ann is looking forward to welcoming more of her long-time customers as she prepares to wind down.
Although she hails from Rathbane, she lives above the shop in the city centre, and hopes to stay there and enjoy her retirement.