Newtownabbey-based textile manufacturer Atkinsons Royal Irish Poplin has celebrated a 200-year banking relationship with Bank of Ireland, with records tracing the partnership back to 1826, in a milestone that illustrates the role of sustained financial relationships in supporting multigenerational family businesses, as reported by the Belfast News Letter. For finance professionals advising long-established SMEs, the story underlines the strategic value of continuity in banking relationships across successive ownership transitions.

The Belfast News Letter reported that Atkinsons Royal Irish Poplin was founded in Dublin in 1820 by Richard Atkinson, who later served as Lord Mayor of Dublin, and has since become one of Ireland's oldest surviving textile businesses. The firm originally produced Irish poplin fabrics before adapting its offering over successive generations to specialise in handcrafted neckties and cravats.

The company's products gained early international recognition, featuring on a court train worn by Queen Victoria in 1838, leading to the award of a Royal Warrant. Its ties were later worn by former US President John F Kennedy, and the firm continues to export to customers across the UK, Ireland and the United States.

While the business was founded in Dublin and maintained a historic city centre presence for many years, its manufacturing operations and headquarters are now based in Northern Ireland. The firm currently employs 12 skilled workers and remains family-run, with direct links to its founding family still intact.

Niall Devlin, head of business banking NI at Bank of Ireland, presented the Nicholson family with a special recognition award to mark the milestone, saying it was a privilege to mark 200 years of partnership, and adding: "The Atkinsons Royal Irish Poplin story is one of commitment, continuity, and innovation, with generations playing their part in shaping a business that's both proud of its heritage and firmly focused on the future. We're very proud to have supported that journey."

Read the full story on Atkinsons Royal Irish Poplin's 200-year banking milestone.