The doors of Spar Nassau Street, located across from Trinity, are shutting for the last time tonight ahead of the demolition of the building that houses it.
The location is frequented by Trinity students looking to purchase snacks, drinks and other items due to the shop’s close proximity to the college. Employees have been aware of a possible closure “for several years”, David Watt, an employee of Spar Nassau Street, told Trinity News. Watt feels “a little bit sad” about the closure. “I’ve been here for 13 years, so…”
The shop will close at 10pm today, instead of its usual weekday 11pm closure time. Staff and most of the stock will be moved to the Spar location on College Green. Spar Nassau Street is offering 25% off their alcohol, however, in order to reduce the amount of stock needed to be transferred.
Naoise Myler, a third year Engineering student, who visits Spar Nassau Street “two to three days a week”, says the closure will be “an inconvenience”. Cian Flaherty, Modern Irish History masters student, said: “It’s always really handy to just pop out the door of the Arts Block two minutes before a lecture.”
“I think it’s a tremendous pity when smaller retailers who are popular with students are just getting kicked out,” Flaherty told Trinity News. Stephen Reilly, a third year PPES student, is optimistic, however: “Realistically, it’s going to be alright.”
Mooch, Lemon and Sprout on Dawson Street have all been forced to close in the last month due to the planned demolition and redevelopment of their building. New retail spaces will occupy the ground floor of the new building, while the upper floors will house office spaces.
Mooch was the first store along Dawson Street and Nassau Street to close up shop, on October 20. In an Instagram post, they thanked their “very loyal customers for four great years”. They are expected to announce their next city centre location soon.
Sprout’s closure followed on November 2. “Three years ago we opened our first Sprout and Col Kitchen on Dawson Street. Our idea was simple, make healthy but tasty food using local ingredients [sic]”. They thanked “everyone who has supported us to get to this point”.
Finally, Lemon closed its doors 23 days later. “A massive thank you to all the amazing customers and workmates we have met and gotten to know over the last 13 years”, they wrote in a Facebook post last month. Their South William Street location will be refurbished in the New Year.
Spar Ireland had not responded to a request for comment at the time of publication.
