PICTURE REWIND: Kilkenny butcher John Joe Cullen closes shop after 50 years
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John Joe Cullen, a renowned local butcher announced his retirement after 50 years behind the counter last month
After more than half a century behind the counter, renowned local butcher John Joe Cullen announced his retirement last week, with doors closing for the final time last month. - PICTURES BELOW BY VICKY COMERFORD
After leaving the army, John Joe forged a long and successful career in the butcher trade, first stepping behind the counter on John Street in 1976. Having worked for many years alongside then-owner Billy Sullivan, John Joe took over the reins in the 1990s, continuing the successful trade.
But as a new dawn approaches, it’s raised mixed emotions for John Joe.
“I will feel the loss of customers, and I know they will feel the loss of going into it (the shop),” John Joe revealed to the Kilkenny People.
PICTURES HERE:
“I know it's got to be a big shake-up for them, and that's probably the worst part of it. Obviously, I’ll miss it in ways,” he said, but admitted he’s looking forward to the new chapter. I’ll still meet plenty of people; it’ll just be in a different way. On the street or in the shops.”
Message to Customers:
“After 50 wonderful years, retirement beckons. Thank you to all our loyal customers for 50 years of support, friendship and loyalty. It has been an honour to serve you,” he added.
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you.”