‘We could not have done it without you’: Family-run Northern Ireland shoe shop to close after 68 years of dedicated community service
Owners of long-established Cookstown business thank loyal customers and staff as they prepare to close after nearly seven decades, while shocked community reflects on its legacy
A long-standing family footwear business in Cookstown has announced it will close its doors after nearly seven decades, prompting an outpouring of emotion from the local community.
Thompson Footwear, a fixture on James Street since 1958, will begin its final closing-down sale on Wednesday (April 22).
Founded by William Thompson and recently run by David and Elaine Thompson, the shop has served generations of customers with ladies’ and gents’ footwear for over 68-years.
In a heartfelt social media message, the couple said they felt the time was right to step away, while acknowledging the changing face of town centre retail.
“On Wednesday 22nd April, we will begin our final sale. After 68 years of business, (Est. 1958 Mr William Thompson) we have decided that now is the right time for us to conclude our time of trade in Cookstown,” they posted.
"When planning for a time to close the shop, we could not have predicted how different business would be now and how many changes there would be in the town centre. There have always been challenges for independent businesses and no more so, than now. However, we do not want to focus on difficult or negative things but rather show our appreciation for the help and support we have enjoyed over the years.”
The Thompson family also paid tribute to staff and customers describing their contribution as vital to the shop’s long-standing success.
They said: “We are so grateful to all our customers. Many who have been with us over the decades. A huge thank you and it goes without saying, we could not have done it without you. A business needs the support of family and again we say thank you to them.
"The other vitally important part of a successful business are the staff members, and we must pay tribute and say thank you to all our staff members over the years for the hard work, loyalty and determination to meet our customers needs. It has always been a team effort.
"So finally, once again just thank you so much to everyone, involved in our time on the corner of James Street.”
The announcement has prompted an emotional response locally, with many describing the closure as a ‘sad day and ‘significant loss’ to the town.
Residents have also been sharing fond memories of childhood visits for school shoes, including the familiar experience of having feet measured with the traditional fitting gauge — a hallmark of the shop’s friendly and attentive service.
The shop will close temporarily on Monday and Tuesday to prepare for the sale, before reopening at 9.30am on Wednesday. Remaining gift vouchers will be accepted during the closing-down period.