Ballymena BID pays tribute as McKillen’s marks 100 years amid closure news

McKillen’s on Church Street, Ballymena launches its closing down sale on Wednesday morning as customers queue up looking for a bargain and taking one last opportunity to visit the much-loved local business

Ballymena BID has said it is “deeply saddened” by news regarding McKillen’s of Ballymena, as the long-established Church Street retailer reaches its 100th year at the heart of the town centre.

The Business Improvement District has urged the community to support the business during its closing sale, while reaffirming its commitment to the future of Ballymena town centre.

In a statement, Ballymena BID acknowledged the significance of the announcement for the wider community.

“Ballymena BID is deeply saddened to hear the news regarding McKillen’s of Ballymena. As the business reaches its 100th year at the heart of our town centre, it is clear that this news is being felt right across the community.”

Tribute to Thomas McKillen and the team

The organisation paid tribute to Thomas McKillen, describing him not only as a respected retailer but also as a committed advocate for the town centre.

“Thomas McKillen is not only a respected retailer, but also a valued member of Ballymena BID and our Vice Chair. He has shown unwavering commitment to supporting the town centre and its businesses over many decades, and at this time our thoughts are with Thomas and the entire McKillen’s team.”

The human impact of the announcement has resonated beyond the shopfront. For generations of families in Ballymena, McKillen’s has been part of everyday life — a business woven into the social and commercial fabric of the town centre.

High street pressures in a challenging climate

Ballymena BID highlighted the wider pressures currently facing high street retailers across Northern Ireland and the UK.

“There is no doubt that doing business in the current climate is extremely challenging. Rising costs, changing shopping habits and increased online competition continue to place significant pressure on high street businesses.

“As a BID, we remain committed to supporting our business community, just as Thomas has supported Ballymena for so many years.”

The statement reflects ongoing concerns about the sustainability of traditional town centre retail, particularly for long-standing independent businesses navigating increased overheads and evolving consumer behaviour.

Community urged to support closing sale

While describing the announcement as difficult for many across Ballymena, the BID emphasised that McKillen’s has not yet closed its doors.

“Although this announcement is difficult for many across Ballymena, McKillen’s has not yet closed its doors, and we would strongly encourage the community to show their support during the business’s closing sale. Supporting local businesses at moments like this truly matters.”

The call to action places the focus firmly on community support, encouraging residents to shop local during the final weeks of trading.

‘The fight for our high street continues’

Despite the setback, Ballymena BID stressed that the town centre remains resilient and forward-looking.

“It is also important to remember that Ballymena remains a strong and vibrant place to do business. The town continues to benefit from significant investment and is home to a diverse and high quality mix of retail, hospitality, professional services, healthcare, beauty and more. There is still a fantastic local offering, and many exciting developments ahead.”

The organisation concluded by reaffirming its long-term commitment to Ballymena’s commercial future.

“Our focus remains on championing Ballymena, encouraging people to shop local and supporting independent businesses of every size and sector. The fight for our high street continues, and Ballymena BID will keep working to ensure a positive and thriving future for the town centre.”

As McKillen’s marks its centenary year, the announcement has struck an emotional chord across the community — underscoring both the challenges facing traditional retail and the enduring importance of supporting local businesses at a pivotal moment for Ballymena town centre.