McElhinneys

McElhinneys is a family-run Ballybofey retailer operating both as a department store and an online shop. Its catalog brings together fashion, footwear, accessories, jewelry, beauty, and home goods, with departments for women, men, and children. That range serves everyday shopping as well as specific needs, such as an outfit for a ceremony, formalwear, or school clothing.

The story began in 1968, when John McElhinney traveled around the area in a Dodge van selling household essentials. Demand led him to open a first shop on Glenfin Street in Ballybofey in 1971. Eight years later, the business moved to a larger space on Lower Main Street, where the current store is located. The company also recounts a flood in 1985 and a firebomb attack in 1987 as part of a history tied to local retail.

Women’s fashion includes dresses, knitwear, coats, pants, nightwear, suits, and selections for guests and special occasions. The men’s department combines casual and formal clothing with shoes, accessories, and suit hire; the children’s department includes clothing, shoes, and school uniforms. Bags, jewelry, lingerie, skin care, fragrances, and home textiles round out the other departments.

In-store shopping plays an important role in occasionwear: a team of stylists is available, and shoppers do not need an appointment to try on occasionwear. McElhinneys says that collection is available in sizes 8 through 30. For customers who prefer to spread out a payment, the Layaway Club lets them reserve a purchase through regular installments under the store’s terms.

The online store carries a broad selection, although the company notes that not every item across its departments is shown on the website. A garment seen online can be tried on in person, and shoppers can ask the team to hold it for their visit. In-store pickup is also available for online orders; customers should wait for the ready-for-collection confirmation before coming in.

Online and in-person purchases have some differences. The website accepts McElhinneys digital gift cards, while physical gift cards sent by mail can be used in the store. This mix is useful for comparing sizes, looking over occasionwear, and asking about parts of the inventory that may not appear in the digital catalog.

The company describes itself as an independent, family-run retailer. Its corporate history says the store employs more than 200 people in Donegal and identifies it as Ireland’s largest department store outside Dublin. Its Main Street location keeps the business closely tied to Ballybofey, while online shopping extends its departments to customers elsewhere.