*Maggie Cronin. Photograph: Tom Micks
THE Family Store in Kilrush is changing the face on retail for elderly people in Co Clare, by bringing the rails to them – along with some impromptu fashion shows.
Established in 1988, the business is nearing its 40th year trading on Moore Street in the heart of Kilrush, where it caters for all the family with children fitted for their first school jumpers to workers picking up high-quality gear.
Kerry native Maggie Cronin took the helm in January 2025, bringing a fresh energy to the shop’s long-standing legacy. The Family Store’s shelves are stocked with everything from baby outfits and Communion wear and accessories for boys and girls to the specific uniforms for secondary schools in Kilrush, Kilkee, Kilmihil, Kildysart, and Spanish Point, and a number of primary schools across Clare.
They also specialise in high-visibility workwear. Bomber jackets, body warmers, and work trousers and work shoes sit ready for the Clare elements. “All these are also available in our kids’ department, which is ever so popular,” Maggie notes. “Of course, all the young lads want to be like Dad”.
Further back, the household section offers a softer touch, hotel-quality pillows and crisp linens designed for a good night’s rest. Speaking on Clare FM’s Morning Focus last week, Maggie noted, “Of course, we want everybody to sleep easy”.
While the storefront remains the heart of the operation, Maggie has spent her first year in business ensuring the shop’s reach extends beyond Moore Street.
Drawing on her previous experience with Kerry Parents & Friends in Listowel and years spent organizing community events, she launched ‘Rocking the Rails.’
It is a simple, thoughtful concept. A traveling retail experience that brings the shop’s racks directly into nursing homes, active retirement groups, and daycare centres across the county. The goal is to return the pleasure of browsing and choosing to those who might otherwise find it difficult to get into town.
“I found a lot of my customers are elderly and very much part of the Family Store,” Maggie says. “Thus my clothing range is very suitable for nursing homes—very affordable and high quality”.
For the residents, the arrival of the pop-up rails is more than just a chance to buy a new dress; it’s an event. “It’s delightful for the residents. The excitement is absolutely unreal. Some would be out at the door waiting for me. I always ensure its great fun and encourage a bit of modelling while I’m there. I find it’s important for the residents of the nursing homes that they still choose their own clothes. It gives them their own independence in making their own decisions when I call in… and again, maintain dignity, respect, and identity”.
The benefits of the initiative are also felt in forming relationships between staff members and residents. “When the staff know the residents’ personal preferences and styles, I feel it strengthens the bonds and trust between them. They’re being dressed in their preferred choice of clothing; it just boosts their confidence and encourages interaction with staff and family, which of course reduces the feeling of isolation. When residents feel comfortable in themselves, they’re more likely to engage in activities and less likely to feel frustrated. It’s just a win-win for everyone”.
For Maggie, that community focus is the way forward for businesses to thrive in rural towns. “For the Family Store to remain community-focused is crucial for long-term survival and success. We offer unique products and expert services, bringing my rails to nursing homes, but I go to active retirement groups and daycare centres around the county as well”.
Maggie is quick to point out that ‘Rocking the Rails’ wouldn’t be possible without the steady hands back at the shop. “Huge thanks to all my customers for supporting me, and my biggest thank you is to Barbara and Amanda, who hold the fort for me every time I go out and Rock Those Rails!”
If you would like to arrange a visit from ‘Rocking the Rails’ or simply want to say hello, you can find the Family Store on Moore Street, Kilrush. Call Maggies on 065 905 1703 or email thefamilystoreltd@gmail.com.
