'Our hearts are heavy': Prominent Limerick retailer to closes its doors after almost 40 years

AFTER 38 years of serving the city’s style needs, a popular fashion and accessories retailer has announced it will close its Cruises Street shop in the new year — but insists this is “not goodbye, just see you later”, as it embraces a move online.

Glitzi Bitz, a family-run store in the city centre will shut its doors in January, with the company shifting its focus to online retail and its remaining Ennis store.

The Limerick store first opened in Williamscourt Mall, where Guineys is located now, then moved to Arthur’s Quay where Jump Juice sits today, later to the old Tourist Office, and finally settled in its home on Cruises Street.

A closing down sale has already commenced in the store and the owners expect to close in the second week of January. 

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The businessowners and mother and daughter, Finola and Sharon Conway took to social media to share the news, saying:

"As we close this chapter, our hearts are heavy but really full. Thank you for growing up with us, dressing up with us, and shining with us. Come say hello before we close our doors in January and move online."

"While we are announcing the closing of Glitzi Bitz – Limerick and Tullamore our Ennis store remains open. We are not going far and will be going fully online with our new website coming soon."

Speaking to Limerick Live, Sharon said she was "very saddened" and that the footfall in Limerick city is "horrendous."

"In the last 12 months, I just can't even put it into words the difference in the city... It's scary. I don't know what the city is going to become," she added.

Sharon and Finola's statement continued: "It’s been an incredible journey over the last 40 years built on fashion, community and loyalty... Thank you to the wonderful staff that have worked with us, supported us and grew with us over the last 40 years. 40 years would not have been possible without you all."

"It's been a really difficult decision that wasn't made lightly. It really was made with a heavy heart but I want to keep positive and move forward with the online side of the business."

Sharon and Finola concluded: "This isn’t goodbye – it’s a heartfelt see you later. We hope our styles will live on in your wardrobes, and the memories will carry forward. We can't thank you all enough."

Glitzi Bitz operated 12 stores across the country at one point.

For more information visit www.glitzibitz.ie and follow @glitzi.bitz on Instagram.