‘Silkes One-Stop Art and Stationery’ is set to close on Christmas Eve following the retirement of its owners and management. Famous for its iconic big pencil sign above its doors, for 30 years it has been instrumental for Limerick’s art scene.
Owner Owen Silke, a prominent member of Limerick city center traders’ association, described the moment as “bittersweet.”
The decision follows the retirement of shop manager Jane who has been working with Silkes for over 20 years.
Mr Silke said: “We’ve had incredible support from the people of the region for over three decades. We’ve seen artists grow and flourish, students become teachers, and teachers become artists.”
“We’re proud to have served our community, to have been a part of such great creativity, and to have shared in so many people’s stories.”
The store was founded in 1999 and has been located at the current address, 64 Catherine Street, since 2001.
As a thank you to customers, Silkes have planned a huge clearance sale. Since the closing has come relatively unplanned, old and new stock will be for sale with huge discounts.
The store closed on November 15th for three days to prepare stock for the sale. It will reopen on Thursday, November 20th at 11am.
Management have stressed that all gift vouchers and credit notes will be accepted.
Owen Silke has encouraged customers to purchase the Limerick gift card, a voucher scheme rolled out by the Chamber of Commerce that “embodies the unique spirit of Limerick.”
Silkes is the second business to announce closure this week following the announcement that Glitzi Bits will close its Limerick and Tullamore stores. Glitzi Bits will continue to trade online and have cited increased costs and lowered footfall as factors that influenced the decision.
Crew Brewing Company on Thomas Street also announced that it will cease trading on Christmas Eve. Owner Jono Crute took to social media saying that it was “quite a devastating decision” to make. Mr Crute cites rising costs, less money in customers pockets and the sudden removal of their outdoor seating area by the city council.
The removal was done without notice or succession plan; an action Mayor John Moran claims was carried out without any official consultation.
Owen Silke reflected on his time trading in Limerick: “We’re proud to have served our community, to have been a part of such great creativity, and to have shared in so many people’s stories.”
He paid tribute to all staff past and present, describing them as “the heart and soul of the shop, always ready with a smile, advice, or encouragement for anyone who walked through the door.”