About Us

Clerys is one of the world’s first purpose-built department stores. Founded in 1853, it has witnessed many significant historical events in the foundation of the Irish state.

The tradition of excellence continues with the prestigious ‘Best Independent Department Store’ in Britain and Ireland from Drapers Magazine in 2006.

The main Clerys store is a listed building due to its architectural significance and historic role in the City. A complete refurbishment was completed in 2004 at a cost of €22m. Each floor was totally revamped to offer customers a truly modern shopping experience while keeping in mind the heritage and architecture of the original building. And in 2007 more than €2 million was invested to give the cosmetics hall a chic new look. New brands were introduced as well as a Mind Body & Soul concept.

Clerys was one of the first to introduce the hugely successful shop within shop concept and the myriad of brands available in the store is one of the many reasons it remains so popular to this day.

History of Clerys

In 1941 the O’Connell Street store was purchased by a Mr Denis Guiney, a local draper who ran the enormously successful retail emporium of Guineys on Talbot Street.

He transformed Clerys into Ireland’s premier shopping destination, bustling with shoppers assured of good quality merchandise at great prices.

Mr Guiney passed away in 1967 leaving the running of the store to his late wife, Mrs Mary Guiney who survived her husband until 2004.

Today the business is run by a Board of Directors many of whom are relatives of the late Denis and Mary Guiney.

21st Century Clerys

A complete refurbishment of the store was completed in 2004 at a cost of €22m. Each floor was totally revamped whilst retaining the many listed structures such as the marble staircase, columns, decorative plasterwork and original joinery that make Clerys such a special place.

The redevelopment of O’Connell Street in 2004, along with the erection of the Dublin Spire positions Clerys at the very heart of all that is what is new and exciting about this vibrant city.

Continued Growth

Clerys continues to bring value and quality to Irish customers. In recent years, a number of new branches have opened to bring household and homeware goods closer to its customers.

1997: Clerys opened a new branch in Leopardstown
1999: Clerys of Blanchardstown opened its doors
2006: Clerys of Naas opened in the Globe Retail Park

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