Established by Patrick Russell Boyd in 1879 and now in its 4th generation of family ownership, Boyds Stores has been part of Newry's commercial life for 147 years.
Boyds Stores is a name that has been part of Newry's commercial life since 1879. From the early Boyd family roots on Church Street, through generations of resilience, rebuilding, innovation and service, it is the story of a family business that has stood the test of time and remained deeply woven into the fabric of Newry.
A mercantile family
The Boyd family from Church Street were a wealthy mercantile family, and their commercial activities can be traced back over 200 years. Andrew Boyd had a portfolio of diverse business interests. He owned an extensive brick works, a cornmill, a hardware and farm supplies business, and was a publican and grocer, landowner and landlord.
Established by Patrick Russell Boyd in 1879, the firm is now in its 4th generation of family ownership with Andrew Maguire Boyd at the helm.
The civic tribute
On Sunday 28 June 2026, Newry Maritime Association hosted a tribute at Boyds' premises at 14 John Mitchel Place, where the Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Councillor Glynn Hanna, unveiled a bespoke commemorative plaque. The project also featured the relevance of the Dundalk and Newry Steampacket Company to the commercial life of Newry.
A booklet compiled by James McArevey for the Association charts the development of the business over 147 years: a story of family, enterprise, faith, hardship and legacy, and a reminder of the people and businesses that helped shape the town we know today.
