Wyse Byse to Close After 53 Years Serving Northern Ireland Communities

Wyse Byse, a long-established independent retailer with stores in East Belfast and Ballymena, will close in the coming weeks. Co-founder and Managing Director Richard McLoughlin is retiring after 53 years in business, marking the end of a much-loved local brand that served generations of customers across Northern Ireland.

A Farewell to a Northern Ireland Retail Institution

After more than five decades at the heart of local communities, Wyse Byse has confirmed it will close its doors in the coming weeks.

The announcement was made by Co-founder and Managing Director Richard McLoughlin, who revealed he will retire following 53 years in business. The decision brings to a close a remarkable chapter in Northern Ireland’s independent retail history.

Wyse Byse has long been a familiar name on the high streets of East Belfast and Ballymena, serving generations of families with a strong emphasis on community, value, and personal service.

Built on Family, Community, and Loyalty

In a statement, Mr McLoughlin reflected on building the business alongside his late brother Jim, describing it as a privilege to serve local communities for more than half a century.

He spoke of his pride in watching Wyse Byse grow into a much-loved local retailer, supported by loyal customers and long-serving staff.

“It has been a privilege to serve local communities in East Belfast and Ballymena for over five decades.”

Tribute to Long-Serving Staff

A special tribute was paid to Wyse Byse employees, many of whom dedicated over 40 years of service to the business.

Mr McLoughlin thanked past and present staff for their commitment, loyalty, and hard work, acknowledging that the company’s success would not have been possible without them.

Gratitude to Customers

The final message was reserved for customers, whose continued support sustained Wyse Byse as a local independent retailer for more than 50 years.

Mr McLoughlin said the business will miss serving the community but will always treasure the memories built with customers across the region.

A Sign of Changing High Streets

The closure of Wyse Byse marks another significant moment for Northern Ireland’s high streets, highlighting the challenges facing long-standing independent retailers in an evolving retail landscape.

While the stores will soon close, the legacy of Wyse Byse remains firmly rooted in the communities it served for generations.