Horan's Pork Shop in Athlone announces closure by end of year
Iconic Athlone business Horan's Pork Shop has today (Thursday) announced it will be closing its doors by the end of the year.
The award-winning shop which specialises in locally-sourced pork and home-cured ham and bacon has been a staple in The Bawn area of the town since 1949.
A statement posted on behalf of the operators of the business, local brothers Mark and Brian Earley, and their colleague Fergie Jameson, said the business was no longer viable in the changing landscape of the town.
"We've had to make a very tough decision to close Horan's Pork Shop," read the statement.
"Sadly the shop is no longer viable due to the changes in trade and in our town. We plan on keeping the shop open until Christmas and close fully by the end of the year.
"The past 13 years have had their highs and lows, but we have no regrets and have enjoyed every minute of it.
"Horan's Pork Shop has been in business since 1949. Still in its original location at the Bawn on Church Street in Athlone, we have had the privilege of serving generations of families over the last 75 years."
The shop was opened three quarters of a century ago by Mark and Brian Earley's grandfather, Bill Horan, and was later run by their late uncle Michael Horan.
Mark and Brian described Michael Horan as their best friend and said he "left us too soon" in 2011.
"Michael taught us the art of butchery - and allowed us from the age of 11 to sweep up on weekends and holidays.
"We looked up to him so much as a teacher, but more so as a friend. There isn't a day that goes by where Michael's name isn't mentioned in the shop by his friends," they added.
"Mary Horan Senior, (Nana to Brian and Mark) was a skilled butcher in her own right. She also worked the shop over the years and made sure it was always open.
"Mary Horan Junior was a crucial part of the business, her careful bookkeeping and attention to detail ensured everything ran smoothly.
"Kian Shanly also worked alongside Michael for many years, and was a great asset to the business."
The shop owners thanked their many loyal customers for their business over the years.
"As we prepare to close this chapter, we want to express our sincere gratitude for all the memories and connections we've made along the way. Thanks for being part of our journey.
"With love, Mark, Brian, and our right-hand man, Fergie Jameson."
Horan's is the latest in a series of family-run Athlone businesses to announce their closure this year.
The Corner House Bistro, James Blacoe Jewellers and Behan's Fruit and Veg have all shut down in 2024, while long-running travel agent Grenham Travel is also closing for good.