By Claire Cartmill

Copyright newsletter

It’s not every day a department store turns 100 — but then again, there’s never been anything ordinary about Moores of Coleraine. As department stores across the UK face an uncertain future, Moores stands as a proud exception — a testament to family, fashion, and fierce determination. This September, the iconic Co Londonderry store marks a century of trading, celebrating 100 years at the heart of Coleraine. Still operating from its original Church Street premises, Moores is far more than a shop. It’s a symbol of local resilience, timeless style, and deep community roots — woven into the town’s fabric for generations. The story began in September 1925 when John Moore, a trained draper from Lisnaskea, moved to Coleraine and purchased a modest drapery shop on Church Street named William Simon. Together with his wife Ruby (Rebecca), he rebranded the business as JW Moore & Co and moved into the flat above. Just two years later, John passed away suddenly, leaving Ruby a young widow with three small children, including a newborn. In the 1920s, it was rare for women to run businesses — rarer still for those raising a young family. But Ruby Moore was undeterred. From sourcing stock in Belfast’s warehouses to managing the day-to-day operations of the shop, her resolve and spirit laid the foundation for what Moores would become. After World War II, her son John joined the business, bringing with him a flair for innovation. One of his earliest successes came when he purchased surplus silk parachutes from the Air Force and transformed them into skirts. Sold by mail order, a single advert in The Times drew such an overwhelming response that the family could barely open the door for the volume of post. As Coleraine’s retail landscape evolved in the 1960s and 70s with the arrival of supermarkets, a growing university, and national chain stores — Moores kept pace. The business expanded into neighbouring premises and embraced early innovations, from mechanical tills to a more modern layout. The much-loved Maypole Dairy building on New Row was one of several key acquisitions during this era of growth. The 1980s welcomed the third generation to the business — Wesley, Ashley, Neville and Glenda — who brought fresh energy and oversaw major refurbishments, including the installation of a customer lift. But the following decade would test the business in ways few could imagine. In 1992, the IRA bombed Coleraine’s town centre, devastating Church Street and The Diamond. Moores suffered significant damage. The physical destruction was profound — but the emotional toll on staff, customers and the wider community was just as severe. It took two years to rebuild. And yet, in true Moore fashion, the store emerged stronger than before, reopening in two phases across 1994 and 1995. It was not just a restoration of bricks and mortar — it was a rebirth of purpose and presence. As the retail world continued to change, Moores adapted. Traditional departments like haberdashery and millinery were gradually phased out in favour of more contemporary categories. In 1994, The Gallery Restaurant opened — its £1 coffee and scone offer quickly became legendary — followed by Café M in 2007, and an expanded beauty hall anchored by The Perfume Shop. Throughout its history, Moores has consistently evolved with the times. The store has welcomed major fashion labels such as Hobbs, Whistles, Mint Velvet and, more recently, Mango. In 2024, a significant revamp of the menswear department introduced iconic global brands like Hugo Boss, Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger, reinforcing Moores’ status as a premium destination for modern style. Today, under the leadership of Neville Moore — with the fourth generation, Jess and John, stepping into the business — Moores is not just surviving in a challenging retail climate, it is thriving. Alongside its sister stores — The White House in Portrush, Clares in Llandudno, and de Gruchy in Jersey — Moores remains grounded in its founding values: family, service, and community. To mark its centenary, Moores is launching a year-long celebration under the theme: “Moores, Celebrating 100 Years,” beginning this Thursday (September 25). The campaign will include heritage-inspired displays, staff tributes, exclusive customer events, and collaborations with local schools, charities, clubs and artists — all honouring the stories, people and values that have shaped the business over the decades. “We’re incredibly proud to reach this milestone,” said Neville Moore, managing director at Moores. “This is a celebration of more than just our store — it’s about the generations of loyal customers, the dedicated colleagues who’ve worked with us, and the strong local partnerships that have kept Moores thriving for a 100 years. “Our amazing team works hard every day to deliver something unique for our customers, and I’m immensely proud of that. This community is our foundation, and we’re excited to celebrate with them.” Each year, Moores supports a chosen charity, and for this landmark year, it has partnered with NI Children’s Hospice. It is also backing Bann Rowing Club with funding for a new boat — a fitting tribute to endurance, teamwork, and forward momentum. From a determined young widow and silk skirts made from parachutes, to bomb recovery, luxury fashion, and four generations of leadership, Moores of Coleraine is more than just a department store — it’s a local institution. A hundred years on, its spirit remains as strong as ever.