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Frank Coffey shuts up shop after four incredible decades in business

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After almost four decades in business, Frank Coffey has decided to close the doors of his shoe shop located on High Street.

It was not a decision taken lightly; the popular Killarney businessman was contemplating the huge decision for a couple of years however two weeks ago he made the final decision to reluctantly shut up shop.

A popular shop amongst locals, Mr Coffey sold many school shoes to the locals of Killarney, one being Hollywood star Michael Fassbender.

He recalled a moment when his son met Michael Fassbender while was in Cork one day. His son mentioned to the Hollywood actor that his dad owned a shoe shop in Killarney, and Michael Fassbender immediately remembered buying his school shoes from him.

When Mr Coffey announced his shop was closing down on social media, his Facebook post was flooded with tributes from customers past and present. Each comment complimented him, his customer service and the excellent experiences they had in store.

That is the legacy that Mr Coffey has left on the town.

Mr Coffey said his favourite thing about his business was the personal aspect to it. He took great satisfaction in helping and advising customers on what to buy.
He said: “I knew everyone, I knew what was going on in their lives, that is the one thing I will miss most of all. The banter, the craic, the communication.”

Mr. Coffey attributes the decline of small businesses to the rise of online shopping, and while he would never protest the online world, he does believe it is instrumental in the breakdown of small, local businesses.
“We live in a world where the personal touch is gone. You buy your stuff online. It’s abrupt. That’s just life, people have moved on.”

He said that people often don’t consider what they’re buying or where they’re buying it from.
When shoppers choose to purchase items like shoes online, it directly impacts small, retailers.

He believes that the continued closure of local businesses will result in job losses, particularly for college students who rely on part-time work to earn a few bob while studying. “Those opportunities just won’t be there for them,” he said.

He said there are no supports for small businesses from the Government and fears it will be a domino effect. He warned: “I’m one but there will be many.”

He expressed his gratitude to the people of Killarney for always supporting him throughout the past 37 years.

Frank Coffey shoes have 1,000 boots to clear at half price; the shop is set to close in around five weeks time. 

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Deenagh Lodge to host Alzheimer’s Memory Walk

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Killarney National Park will serve as the venue for this year’s Kerry Alzheimer’s Memory Walk on Sunday, September 20.

Participants will gather at the Deenagh Lodge ahead of an 11.00am start to complete a 5km scenic route through the park.

The event takes place on the eve of World Alzheimer’s Day as part of a nationwide series of walks supported by Aviva.


Now in its seventh year, the initiative raises vital funds for The Alzheimer Society of Ireland to support local dementia services, including daycare centres, family carer training, social clubs, dementia cafés, and the national helpline.

Last year, nearly 3,000 walkers across Ireland raised over €240,000 for the cause.


The Kerry walk will be led by local champions Kathriona Sheehan, Niamh Murphy, Lynda Phillips, and Melissa Molyneaux, who are walking in support of all those living with dementia.
“We are proud to lead our annual Alzheimer’s Memory Walk supported by Aviva to help fund local dementia services in Kerry,” they said. “The event is about community and helping spread awareness by walking together to raise vital funds for care, support, and hope for the days ahead. Join us in Killarney on Sunday, 20th September to show your support.”


With over 40 walks scheduled across Ireland, members of the public can walk in memory of a loved one or to show solidarity. Further details and registration are available at memorywalk.ie.

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Gary Moynihan wins racecourse style title

Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day. Moynihan, a local neuromuscular […]

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Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day.

Moynihan, a local neuromuscular therapist, claimed Best Dressed Gentleman in a made-to-measure six-button burgundy double-breasted suit with a navy check from Saville Menswear in Cork. He completed the winning look with a shirt and paisley tie from Simply Suits Killarney and brown derby shoes from Pavers at the Killarney Outlet Centre.
Best Dressed Lady was awarded to Novak, a hospital personal assistant from Tullamore, who wore a red polka-dot ensemble and custom hat designed by milliner Rita Daly, featuring sustainable jewellery made from recycled plastic.
Canella Lane owner Ciana Aspell praised the high standard of fashion on the day, while Killarney Racecourse Manager Karl McCay thanked the sponsors and racegoers for their support.
With the summer season now wrapped up, the team at Killarney Racecourse is gearing up for the October Festival on October 4 and 5, featuring its first-ever Student Raceday with SPIN South West on the Monday. Early ticket booking is advised.

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