Retirement beckons for Bradys

After 85 years, an iconic Cavan clothing shop is to close its doors for the last time.

It was 1937 when Maurice and Kay Brady opened their family business on Main Street in Cavan Town.

Over the almost nine decades that followed, Maurice Brady’s became a one-stop-shop for clothing for all ages.

For current proprietors Maurice and Kathleen Brady, the time now is right to call it a day and head into retirement.

“We have four children and six grandchildren with another on the way. A Christmas baby,” says Kathleen.

“We’re looking forward to spending more time with them.”

For the couple it appears to have been a labour of love but one that required a lot of time and attention. No back to school trip was complete without a stop into Maurice Brady’s for the school uniform.

“We used to stock uniforms for 14 or 15 schools,” laughs Kathleen. “It took a lot of energy.”

However, they took pride in the service they provided to local families, something noted by Maurice: “It was a privilege to be part of the excitement of so many children’s first days at primary and secondary school. We also want to make sure to acknowledge the loyalty from all our schools and thank them sincerely for their many years of support and appreciation.”

Maurice and his late brother Seán joined the business in 1971, developing it further and extending the range of stock. Kathleen joined later, splitting her time between her job as a nurse and the shop.

She was instrumental in opening the business’s lingerie department, nurturing it to become well known for the service provided.

Opened in what was then the family home on Main Street, the family lived on the three floors above the shop. Extended and renovated by Maurice and Kathleen in 1992, the iconic building is now up for sale.

Through the years the range of products stocked expanded and changed with the times, from men’s and women’s knitwear to general household supplies and drapery items.

While driving the business to what it is today, Maurice and Kathleen needed the help of their staff with the day-to-day operations. “As a family business we always considered our staff as part of our family. We are very fortunate to have worked with such dedicated, hardworking and loyal staff,” remarks Kathleen who is quick to remember staff members who have since died.

Maureen Smith was on hand when the Celt visited last Friday morning. She’s been with the business almost two decades.

“It was either ’04 or ’05, I can’t remember which,” she laughs.

“We never had a cross word. I’m going to miss them. I bring Maurice the coffee in the morning and he brings me the paper.”

Maurice and Kathleen also value the hard work of the recently retired, Frank Lyons, who was a mainstay of the Main Street premises.

“He worked all his life in Maurice Brady’s and he continues to cover part time. He has been a very valued member of our team.”

For the Bradys the time has come to look forward to the future.