End of an era as 'Cork retail icon' Mannix & Culhane closes its doors after 95 years in business
Customers paid tribute after Mannix & Culhane on Washington Street closed its doors for the last time. Pictures: Eddie O'Hare
Cork’s retail community has suffered yet another blow following the closure of one of its oldest stores, which had been trading in the city centre for almost a century.
Mannix & Culhane on Washington Street closed its doors for the last time on Monday after 95 years in business. The family business was steeped in history, having survived a number of recessions and the covid-19 pandemic.
While businesses came and went over the years, the shop had been a staple of Cork City for several decades.
Mannix & Culhane’s closure follows that of the Denim Store on Cook Street, which also ceased trading in recent days.
Having Munster and Ireland rugby legend Ronan O’Gara working at the store during his school days was just one of Denim Store owner Tim Heelan’s many claims to fame. Others included having Irish former professional footballer Niall Quinn among his well-known customers.
Meanwhile, a number of people took to social media platforms and forums to acknowledge the end of an era for the staff and family behind Mannix & Culhane.
One person wrote: "I bought many an item from John Mannix down the years and I could well vouch for the quality of his wares. John, who died some time back, was a most pleasant man.
“He had been a fine sportsman in his time. He was a fine out half for the Well and loved his hurling also. Indeed, the shop looks a little sad and timeworn now, but it was once a vibrant hive of activity, particularly when it was the official outlet for various school uniforms. All changed, changed utterly.”
Friends of the business, including Fitzgerald Menswear on St Patrick Street, also extended their support via Facebook saying:
“Our best wishes to all at Mannix & Culhane as the Cork retail icon is set to close.”
While many have lamented the store’s closure, it is hoped recent additions to the city will breathe new life into Cork’s retail hub. Cork’s first Mountain Warehouse store is already showing signs of promise after attracting crowds to its launch on Opera Lane in recent weeks. The building had previously been home to Topshop, which closed in 2021.
