'I will not open again next season': Outpouring of support and good wishes as Northern Ireland farm shop to close after 22 years
The much-loved Londonderry business will shut tomorrow (Friday), with owner Kathy paying tribute to customers whose support helped the shop grow from humble beginnings
A well-known local business, Maydown Farm Shop in Londonderry, will close its doors for the final time tomorrow (Friday), its owner has announced.
The Clooney Road shop, which has served the community for more than two decades, has this final week been operating on a limited basis, offering potatoes, basic vegetables, eggs and a small selection of other items.
Confirming the closure in a social media video, owner Kathy said the decision marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter.
“I will not open again next season. It is the decision that I have decided to make, and move on to the next phase of my life, whatever that will be,” she said.
Reflecting on 22 years in business, Kathy expressed deep gratitude to customers who supported the shop from its modest beginnings.
“I want to say a huge big thanks you to everyone that has come and supported me over the last 22 years. I can’t believe it’s been that long since I decided to think, ‘oh, I’ll take over and sell a few cabbages and bits and pieces’, and it’s grown to what it was. Without your support, that wouldn’t have happened,” she explained.
She also spoke about the strong personal connections formed with customers over the years, noting that many provided not only business support but emotional encouragement as well.
Trying not to get emotional, she added: “It’s just been really, really nice. I couldn’t have done it without everybody. You’ve been there on the business side of things, which I really appreciate, and sometimes the emotional support customers have given me over the years has just been amazing.”
While the shop is closing, Kathy confirmed she is not leaving the area and hope to continue seeing familiar faces around the city.
“I’m still staying around Derry/Londonderry, so hopefully I’ll see you all around, or we’ll catch up for a coffee or whatever. Just thank you!”
Maydown Farm Shop will remain open until tomorrow (Friday) at 5pm, with Kathy encouraging customers to drop in for a final visit — whether for fresh produce or a coffee.
In response, hundreds of loyal customers, friends and family shared messages of support and appreciation, thanking Kathy for her years of service to the community and wishing her well for the future.