J+ B Hope on Bridge Street, Cavan town opened in a former bar in 2011 when the owners blew their savings on stock for an Amish-inspired general store they had visited in the States. It was a business plan that any decent bank manager would have thrown out, and yet it's thriving.
So what makes a premises a specialist shop?
Liz Morrison says its about creating a way of life. She has nominated The Textile Studio for its service to East Belfast's thriving community of knitters, crocheted and sewers. "It goes way beyond haberdashery," she says. "Specialising in natural fibres for all budgets, owner Asa McDowell and her friendly staff are on hand to tell you how to use them. The weekly Drop In To Knit is great for company and advice, the classes are very popular and a new generation are picking up skills at the Summer scheme."
Catriona Shiel believes it to be about providing excellent service and great customer care. She has nominated The Optical Shop in Blackrock, Dublin, because it "inspires a loyal base of customers who keep coming back due to the friendly staff and attention that everyone is provided with. Popping in is like visiting an old friend - nothing is too much trouble and you are always made to feel valued and looked after."
For Andrew Kenny Churchtown Stores, a hardware shop in D14 for more years than anyone can remember, exemplifies this "genuine old time feel" because "the service is personal, the experience and advice superb with years of experience behind it not like many new franchise options on the field. They have everything you need from plants, drainpipes, and clothes dye to tableware and candles for a candle lit supper!"
Eilish Healy feels similarly about Bunclody Golf and Fishing Pro Shop in Co Wexford where the staff "go beyond the call of duty to help their customers".
Neil Kiely is putting framers Hang Tough in Dublin 8 forward for the "attention to detail and exceptional service".
Emanualle Legrand likes Bradley's off licence and food store, an establishment on Cork's North Main Street since 1850 because of its "huge range of locally sourced produce" and "informed staff".
Linda Kelly loves helpful staff at The Storeyard in Portlaoise and its "unbelievable array of antique items and the fact that there is a history attached to the products".
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Best Shops 2015 is sponsored by Clover, a First Data product from AIB Merchant Services
