Alexanders of Markethill – a Co Armagh gift shop that needs no introduction – is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year.
The family-run department store – which offers a huge range of unique gifts for all seasons and occasions – is famous for its elaborate Christmas displays, which like clockwork draw the masses to their store on Keady Street every festive season.
What makes the anniversary even more special, however, is the fact that Alexanders has been in the same family all those years.
The store was started by Norman and Iris Alexander in July 1954 and has gone through many renovations and changes over the years.
Today, Suzanne Laverty and her sister Johanne Maxwell are striving to make their late mum and dad proud as they hold the fort and build on the huge legacy left behind.
Speaking to Armagh I on their 70th year, Suzanne and Johanne said: “We want to thank all our loyal and hard-working staff – some who have been with us for over 25 years – for helping us reach this amazing milestone in the business. Their dedication, assistance and enthusiasm throughout the years have played a massive part in ensuring the smooth running of the store.
“We also want to thank our loyal customer base who support us, not only at Christmas but throughout the rest of the year. Without your support we would not be able to celebrate this incredibly special occasion.”
They added: “Many customers have been reminiscing about the days when our Dad and Mum were running the business, and it is lovely to hear their wonderful memories and see the old photographs of the early days in business.
“We look forward to continuing to thrive in our business and will endeavour to bring new and exciting products and ideas to our store in the years ahead.”
The family behind Alexanders, and the Market House premises itself, are steeped in tradition. The building was built in 1835 by the first Earl of Gosford and has hosted all sorts of businesses over the years, even including a dance hall.
Norman and Iris Alexander bought the Market House in 1954, and the Alexander family lived on the upper level of the shop for years. Back then Alexanders sold everything from furniture, carpets and beds, to fridges, TVs and water pumps, with the very first item Norman sold being a bicycle bell.
It comes as no surprise that from no age, Suzanne and Johanne were working on the shop floor, where they were responsible for the toy section at Christmas time. They have been equal partners in the business for over 25 years, with Suzanne’s daughter Katie coming on board as Marketing & Operations Manager in July 2020.
Norman passed away in September 2020, followed by Iris 19 months later in April 2022.
Read more: Alexanders of Markethill’s ‘Leading Ladies of Christmas’
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