'We’re proud of what we’ve achieved together': Northern Ireland family-run textile maker celebrates a 200-year banking milestone
Co Antrim’s Atkinsons Royal Irish Poplin reflects on two centuries of shared history with Bank of Ireland as it continues to export its products around the world
A Co Antrim textile manufacturer is celebrating a banking relationship spanning more than 200 years after reaching a remarkable milestone with Bank of Ireland.
Atkinsons Royal Irish Poplin, based in Newtownabbey, has marked more than two centuries as a Bank of Ireland customer, with records tracing the partnership back to 1826.
The company, founded in Dublin in 1820 by Richard Atkinson, has become one of Ireland’s oldest surviving textile businesses and remains renowned for producing traditional Irish poplin neckwear.
Bank of Ireland and Atkinsons Royal Irish Poplin recently reflected on their shared history and heritage as the business continues to thrive more than 200 years after it was established.
The company began when Richard Atkinson, who later served as Lord Mayor of Dublin, commissioned a group of weavers to produce Irish poplin fabrics for his shop.
Its products quickly gained international recognition. Irish poplin made by the company featured on a court train worn by Queen Victoria in 1838 and the business was later awarded a Royal Warrant.
As fashions evolved, Atkinsons adapted its offering, moving away from ladies' fabrics and specialising in Irish poplin cravats and men's neckties. The firm's products were worn by notable figures including former US President John F Kennedy.
While the business was founded in Dublin and maintained a historic presence in the city for many years, its manufacturing operations and headquarters are now based in Northern Ireland.
Today, Atkinsons Royal Irish Poplin remains a family-run business with links to its founder still intact. The company employs 12 skilled workers and exports its handcrafted neckties and cravats to customers across the UK, Ireland and the United States.
Marking the milestone, Niall Devlin, head of business banking NI, Bank of Ireland presented Peter Nicholson, chairman and Michael Nicholson, managing director, Atkinsons Royal Irish Poplin with a special recognition award.
Making the presentation, Niall said: “It’s a privilege to mark 200 years of partnership with Atkinsons Royal Irish Poplin.
"At the core of the partnership are strong, trusted relationships built over time and rooted in a deep understanding of each other’s business. The Atkinsons Royal Irish Poplin story is one of commitment, continuity, and innovation, with generations playing their part in shaping a business that’s both proud of its heritage and firmly focused on the future. We’re very proud to have supported that journey.”
Reflecting on the long-standing relationship, Peter Nicholson, chairman, Atkinsons Royal Irish Poplin added: “This is a proud milestone for everyone across the company. For over two centuries, our business has been shaped by generations of craftsmanship, dedication and a strong sense of purpose.
"We’re very aware that we are the current custodians of that legacy, building on the work of those before us while preparing the business for generations to come.
“Our long-standing relationship with Bank of Ireland has played an important part in that journey. Their support over many years reflects the value of strong, trusted partnerships in helping businesses grow and adapt. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved together and look forward to the future.”