Who we are?
Bolands is one of the oldest, continuously
family-run enterprises in south County Wicklow. For generations we have been Christmas
to the masses and this year enter the online Christmas space for the first time.
Today we continue the great tradition of supplying only the best products and
value to suit the modern lifestyle. With an extensive stock and friendly,
experienced staff, Bolands can help you enhance your home this Christmas,
meeting all your requirements from indoor to outdoor, rooftop to garden.
Our history
Trading since 1816, Mr. Peter Boland of Arklow set
up a small trading firm with a single boat, importing coals and timber from
England. His son, also named Peter, expanded the business and entered the
retail trade in the areas of haberdashery and house goods. He also established
one of the earliest steam powered industrial works in Ireland for a timber
sawmill and joinery works. In 1876 the firm passed into the ownership of the Fogarty
family of Aughrim, Co. Wicklow who were prominent in cereal and corn milling.
Retaining the original name of P. Boland, the Fogarty family expanded the
business and five generations later the name of P. Boland of Arklow has become
synonymous with the town’s retail history.
The local community
Throughout its long history, Bolands’ association
with the local Arklow community includes the institution of six major housing
schemes in Arklow beginning in the 19th century, as well as a significant number
of private residences, commercial premises, and philanthropic endowments to
churches and schools. These civic projects have enhanced Arklow’s urban housing
stock and are now much sought after for the durability and quality of their
buildings. Bolands continues this fine tradition and regularly sponsors
numerous organisations from sporting clubs and local cultural groups to
festivities such as the St. Patrick’s Day parades. This is a reflection of our
deep commitment to creating a vibrant community and is also in recognition of
the loyalty of our customers.
