After 45 years of dedicated service to the Brookeborough community, independent retailer Benny McClave is retiring from his beloved Nisa store.
A fixture of the village in Northern Ireland, ‘Benny’s Shop’ has been more than just a convenience store - it has been a cornerstone of the community, a place where friendships were formed, and countless memories were made.
Originally from Roslea, Benny took over the shop in 1978 and spent a year renovating it before opening in 1979. Over the years, the store evolved through different fascias before joining Nisa, but its commitment to the local community never wavered.
Reflecting on his time behind the counter, Benny said: “It took me a long time to get to know people and their faces, and I suppose it took them a long time to get to know me too.”
Throughout his career, Benny has been much more than a retailer. He has been a steadfast supporter of local causes, regularly donating to schools and community projects.
One of his most cherished contributions was organising Santa’s annual visit to the store, a tradition that brought joy to generations of children.
With Santa arriving on a trailer to hand out gifts, and adults treated to a warm bowl of soup, it became a highlight of the festive season. Even after the disruption caused by COVID-19, Benny’s legacy endured, with the local playgroup taking on the responsibility of continuing the tradition.
Benny, who handed over the store on Friday, 7 March 2025, acknowledged that saying goodbye was not easy.
“Of course, I will miss it,” he said. “I’ll miss the company and the pleasure of serving the customers. It’s been a lifetime - 45 years - I’m bound to miss it.”
Nigel Maxwell, Regional Retail Manager in Northern Ireland for Nisa, paid tribute to Benny’s incredible contribution: “Benny is the definition of a true community retailer.
"For 45 years, he has served Brookeborough with dedication, kindness, and a wonderful sense of humour. His generosity and commitment to local causes have made a lasting impact, and he will be greatly missed by customers, colleagues, and the wider Nisa family.
"We wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement. Although Benny is stepping away from the shop, he and his family will remain in Brookeborough, a place he fondly refers to as home.
"As he hands over the reins, the entire community celebrates the remarkable career of a man who truly made a difference.
