After a lot of thought (and more than a few late nights), we’re sharing some news we never imagined we’d have to write: Gormley Shoes will be closing.

This shop has been part of Strabane life for a long time. We opened our doors in May 1994 at 53 Main Street, but the roots go back even further than that — and so do the memories. If you’ve ever popped in for a quick look and left with a pair you still talk about years later, you’ll understand why this is emotional for us.

Why we’re closing

Retail has changed massively, and the last few years have asked a lot of small independent businesses. But if we’re being honest, the biggest reason is simple: health and wellbeing have to come first.

Running a shop like this means you’re always “on” — buying, selling, fixing problems, answering messages, sorting returns, keeping the place looking right, and trying to stay positive even when the numbers don’t cooperate. We’ve given it everything we have, and we’re proud of what we built. Now it’s time to step back.

What happens next

We’re into our final weeks now, and once stock is gone, it’s gone. That means this could be all wrapped up in three weeks or less — we’ll keep you posted as we go.

Between now and then, we’ll be doing what we’ve always done:

• Keeping the shop open Mon–Sat, 9am–5pm (this may change towards the end)
• Serving you properly, with honest advice and the right fit
• Clearing remaining stock with closing down offers (in-store and online - although the website is due to close on the 5th of march to allow returns processing)
• We will be selling everything- that includes furniture, fitting, equipment, shelving, display units, Christmas decorations if you see somehting in the shop ask about it- EVERYTHING needs to go.

If you’ve been meaning to call in, this is the time. Whether it’s a last pair of Rieker, a winter boot that will actually last, or a fresh set of laces — we’d love to see you.

Returns, exchanges, and gift cards

We know people will have practical questions, so here’s our commitment:

• Please note: we cannot accept returns on our closing down sale items.
• If you have a gift card or credit note, please get your gift cards or credit notes used as soon as possible because stock will run our very quickly.

If you’re unsure about anything, just ask in-store, message us, or email — we’ll point you in the right direction.

Thank you (properly)

To our customers: thank you for supporting an independent shop in a town that’s seen a lot of change. Some of you have been with us for decades. We’ve watched families grow up, we’ve fitted shoes for weddings, first jobs, interviews, holidays, and everything in between. That’s not something we’ll ever forget.

To our suppliers and reps: thank you for the relationships, the support, and the patience — especially when the world got complicated at the end  - Paul, Matt & Hannah, Eileen and Suzy x

And to everyone who has ever recommended us, shared a post, left a review, or simply said “I’ll call in next week” and actually did — thank you. You kept the lights on, and you kept us going.

One last favour

If Gormley Shoes has ever helped you out — even in a small way — we’d love you to:

• Call in before we close
• Share this post with someone local
• Leave a quick review or a comment with a memory (we’ll be reading every one)

We’ll share updates as we go, including clearance details and the final closing day once it’s clear.

From the bottom of our hearts,

Declan & Colette xx
Gormley Shoes, 53 Main Street, Strabane