PADDY’S fishmongers is closing its doors in Port St Mary in a move which it says will "protect the business".

The local fishmongers has announced that it has merged with Robinsons and will relocate to its production facility in Braddan.

The merger took effect yesterday (February 1) and will see Paddy's integrate its fish division within Robinsons to supply and service wholesale and restaurant customers as well as the retail fish counters within the Shoprite stores.

Paddy's began trading from the Quay in Port St Mary in 2006 as the retail arm of Island Seafare.

Tim Croft from Paddy's explained: "The decision to leave Port St Mary was obviously a tough one as it was where the Paddy's story began.

"Since I started the business much has happened in the retail and economic environment and in order to protect the business and for it to thrive and reach its full potential then we needed to change."

John Horsthuis, managing director of Robinsons, said: "This merger brings together two family run businesses each with a strong tradition of food service in the Isle of Man.

"The strengths of both Robinsons within the restaurant and wholesale sector and Paddy's in retail will allow the new business arrangement to reach its strategic goals which will lead to an enhanced offering for our customers on the Island.

"We are very pleased to be a part of this new and exciting development."

A statement on the Paddy's Facebook page reads: "Tim, Paddy and all the team would like to thank you for all your support over the years and hope that you will continue to support the Paddy's name by buying loads and loads of fish!"

For more information on Paddy's click here.

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