Cushioning the fall with a switch to soft furnishings

The transition from one generation to the next proved a major turning point for Abbeylands Furniture, the family-owned firm in Co Meath marking four decades in business next year.

Established in 1979 by Danny Fitzpatrick, Abbeylands originally sold foam and fibres to furniture manufacturers in Ireland. By the time Fitzpatrick had retired in 1999, however, the sector was in steep decline.

Having taken over from her father in the role of managing director, ...