19:27, Thu, Jan 29, 2026 Updated: 20:39, Thu, Jan 29, 2026
Wyse Byse is to close all its locations (Image: Getty)
A popular retailer has announced all its locations are to close after 53 years in business. Northern Irish store Wyse Byse was established by Richard McLoughlin and his late brother Jim McLoughlin in Ballymena in 1972, followed by a Cregagh Road branch in 1974 and Newtownards Road in 1984.
After Mr McLoughlin's retirement, the company confirmed that all three outlets will shut their doors in the coming weeks. Richard McLoughlin said: "A heartfelt thank you to all our staff, past and present, many of whom have been with us for over 20 years, for their hard work, loyalty, and dedication throughout the Wyse Byse journey.
"Our success would not have been possible without you."
Wyse Byse also expressed gratitude to its customers for their support over the past 53 years, and noted that additional details regarding the closure will be shared in due course.
East Belfast MP Gavin Robinson called the closure "very sad news", Belfast Live reports.
He said: "Wyse Byse has been far more than a shop, but for generations of families in East Belfast and Ballymena, it has been a familiar and trusted presence on the corner of Bloomfield Avenue and Cregagh Road.
"From light bulbs to last minute essentials, birthday cards to extension leads, cleaning products or a new mug set, Wyse Byse was the place you could rely on.
Wyse Byse announced the closure of all locations after 53 years in business. (Image: -)
"Alongside his late brother Jim, Richard created something truly special, a local independent business that stood the test of time and navigated through the enormous changes in the retail world.
"I want to pay particular tribute to the many staff, many of whom dedicated decades of their working lives to Wyse Byse.
"That level of loyalty speaks volumes about the values at the heart of this business and the respect shown to those who helped make it what it was.
"To Richard and his family, thank you. Thank you for your contribution to our local economy and our community life over more than five decades and to every customer that walked through the door and kept our local institution alive.
"Wyse Byse will be sorely missed but its legacy will long be remembered. I wish Richard every good wish for his well-deserved retirement."
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