An outgoing Ennis family business who’ve been in existence for just under half a century say the council must listen to traders to ensure the future success of the town.
Madden’s Furniture is set to make way for a new operator on Station Road.
First opening their doors in the Smithstown Industrial Estate in 1977, Madden’s Furniture soon made the move to Ennis, where they weren’t long becoming a staple for generations of customers.
In 1989, Madden’s purchased the derelict Paddy Cons Ballroom on Station Road and after a renovation, would soon reopen in their iconic building with a dance.
After 49 years though, Madden’s are now calling time on their distinguished career, partly due to family commitments, but also due to an unexpected offer from a new investor, who will be embarking on their own venture with the premises.
Owner Michelle Madden says it’s been an incredible journey and that she’s filled with mixed emotions.
The intentions of the new owners are expected to be announced in the coming weeks, but Madden’s will still be a fixture on Station Road until the end of this month.
Manager Aoife Madden says the last few years in particular have been challenging for town traders, due to ongoing road closures and with that parking challenges.
However, she’s confident that the new CEO of Clare County Council Gordon Daly and COO of Ennis 2040 Padraic McElwee will bring the town in a fresh direction and approach contentious issues with a clean slate.
She believes Ennis is a ‘golden product’ due to its unique showcase of family businesses, but says traders must be supported by the powers that be for the town to thrive.
You can listen to the full interview here:
