To celebrate over 40 years in business and see things move from one generation to the next is a significant achievement – but that is exactly what Manleys Menswear in Athy are doing this week.
The hugely popular menswear shop was set up on Leinster Street in Athy on April 12, 1976, by Tom Manley and his wife Susan, both originally from Portarlington.
Today they celebrate 43 years in business, a considerable feat given how much things have changed in the industry over the years. Tom is still a visible presence in the business which is now run by his son Philip.
To mark the occasion they are offering 20% off all stock today and tomorrow, Friday and Saturday, April 11-12.
“Good personal service and high quality,” answers Tom when asked what the key to such longevity is.
And that mantra is very much evident from the moment you walk in through the door. The welcome is always warm but the quality of the stock, the selection and the range of options stand out too.
There has also been a huge family involvement over the years with Tom’s daughters Clare, Anne and Naomi and son Toss all chipping in when the need arises as well.
Suits, casual wear and shoes have always been a mainstay of the business – with Marc Darcy, Benetti and 6th Sense among their brands. Wedding suits are now a huge part of what they do too with a new wedding section soon to open in the upstairs of the shop.
When Tom opened for business after moving from Tullamore where he and Susan were living and Tom had been working in Galvin’s Menswear, he was well-known in GAA circles.
A talented footballer with Portarlington he had won Leinster minor and U-21 titles with Laois in 1966 and 1969 and was involved with the senior team beaten in the 1968 Leinster final by Longford.
The GAA connections were a huge help over the years as he built up the business and today they have customers from a large hinterland around Athy – from Kildare, Carlow, Kilkenny and Laois.
With times changing, Manley’s Menswear have adapted too. Last year they launched their online store – a new departure for a business with a proud tradition.
You can check out Manley’s Facebook page here or get in touch with them by calling 059 8631770 or by emailing info@manleysmenswear.ie.
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