Celebrating 50 memorable years at Hanley’s Newsagents in Fermoy

Justin Hanley ready to serve another customer at Hanley's Newsagents. (Photo: Katie Glavin)

This September marks an incredible milestone for Hanley’s Newsagents – 50 years of serving the wonderful community of Fermoy and surrounding villages, since 1974.

Across that time, Hanley’s has been more than just a local newsagent; it has been a cornerstone of the town, a place where generations of families have come for their daily news, sweets, ice cream and of course, friendly conversation.

Formerly Slattery’s, Michael J. Hanley purchased the business in September 1974, its prominent location central to life in Fermoy. 

Following several years of working abroad, Justin Hanley began working in the family business in 2000 having previously trained as a manager with a newsagents group in Dublin. 

In 2017, he embraced the opportunity to buy the business and property, at full market value, from his father, Michael. This week, Justin shared with The Avondhu the journey the business has taken and his aspirations for the future.

“As we reflect on our journey, we would like to express our deepest gratitude to the people of Fermoy. Your loyalty and support have allowed Hanley’s to thrive through the years. Many of you have grown up with us, and we’ve had the privilege of serving not just one generation, but multiple. We have shared in your stories, your milestones, and your everyday lives,” Justin said.

“We also owe our success to the hard-working staff, past and present, who have been the backbone of this business. Their dedication, warmth and professionalism have ensured that each customer’s experience at Hanley’s is memorable”.

“Looking forward, we are excited about the future of Hanley’s. While the town continues to evolve, we remain steadfast in our commitment to adapting and growing alongside the needs of our cherished customers. So here’s to 50 years of history and to many more to come. Thank you all, for being part of the Hanley’s story!”, he concluded.

A central part of life in Fermoy town since 1974, this archive photo shows Pearse Square in 1986, with the shop a prominent feature.