For over a century, Tully’s Department Store has been part of everyday life in Drogheda. Founded in 1924, the family-run business has grown alongside the town itself, evolving through generations while remaining rooted in trust, warmth and genuine customer care.
“We’re a department store,” said Naomi Tully, owner and fourth-generation member of the Tully family. “We sell everything from ladies’ fashion and footwear to homewares, haberdashery and gifts. I’m incredibly proud to be continuing the family legacy.”
That legacy is something customers feel the moment they walk through the doors. “People regularly tell me about their parents or grandparents shopping in Tully’s years ago,” Naomi said. “They always mention it with a smile. Those memories mean everything.”
The business began as a drapery founded by Naomi’s great grandfather, James Tully Snr, on West Street. Over the decades it expanded, passed through generations and adapted through major changes in retail. Today, Tully’s is located in the M1 Retail Park in a large, modern open-plan store with free parking and easy access. “It has become a favourite destination for shoppers not just from Drogheda, but from across the northeast.”
What truly sets Tully’s apart is the experience. “Our staff are the heart of the business,” Naomi said. “They’ve been the face of Tully’s through the years. Without them, we simply wouldn’t exist.” That commitment to customer care has been recognised through awards including High Street Hero Best Small Retailer at the Northeast Business Excellence Awards, along with finalist spots for customer service and customer focus.
“People don’t just come here to shop,” she said. “They come to chat, laugh and enjoy themselves. The atmosphere in the shop is something really special. The girls bring such positive energy. The craic is great and there’s always laughter.”
One of the store’s most loved features is its weekly Facebook Lives. “Myself and Francis host a mini fashion show every Thursday evening,” Naomi explained. “We show outfits, accessories and different ways to style them. Customers look forward to it every week. It’s real, it’s fun and it works.”
Being a business owner in Drogheda holds deep meaning for Naomi. “This town has a heartbeat you can feel. You’re not just running a shop. You’re part of the fabric of the place. Customers feel like neighbours, friends and extended family.”
That loyalty has carried Tully’s through recessions, relocations and huge changes in retail. “People made a conscious decision to support us when it mattered most. That loyalty kept the doors open. You don’t forget that.”
Behind the counter is what Naomi describes as “the soul of the shop.” “They’re experienced, warm and full of personality. Customers often ask for staff members by name, which says everything.”
No two days are ever the same. “One minute I’m buying stock, the next I’m styling outfits, filming content, chatting with customers or solving problems. Retail keeps you present. It keeps you connected.”
There are countless moments that stay with her, from unexpected Facebook Live moments to customers leaving the shop in outfits they swore they were only trying on. One recent post featuring customer Elaine went viral. “She was stopped on the street by people congratulating her. Those are the moments that make it all worthwhile.”
Looking ahead, Naomi’s focus is on growth with intention. “We want to strengthen our online presence, evolve our content and expand our ranges while staying true to who we are. The goal isn’t to be bigger. It’s to be better and more connected.”
Supporting Tully’s does not always mean spending money. “Shopping in-store, engaging with us online, sharing a post or recommending us to a friend. Every small action matters.”
Her message to Drogheda shoppers is simple and heartfelt. “When you shop local, you’re investing in your town. You’re keeping stories alive, not just shelves stocked. Once local businesses are gone, they’re gone. That’s a loss you can’t replace.”
Quick Fire Round
Favourite thing about Drogheda:
“How loyal the local community is. Customers have followed us from West Street to the Retail Park, and now the next generations are shopping with us too.”
Best selling items right now:
“Christmas gifts, glamorous outfits and heels. Everyone is getting ready for the festive season.”
Favourite local shop:
“The Design Gallery on Laurence Street. Lelia is inspirational and constantly evolving her business.”
Describe your business in three words:
“Warm. Trusted. Customer oriented.”
