The Dwyer name in Cork has been synonymous with clothing since the 1800s, employing more than 2,000 people at one time. The Dwyers were part of the city's merchant prince structure.
While Dwyer & Co no longer holds sway, the family name continues to thrive in a new incarnation. Eurostyle Ltd, with a staff of 35, has just been named Ireland's first licensee for Ryder Cup women's clothing.
The golf and leisurewear company was founded by Mr George Dwyer in 1972, specialising in golf wear for women. In 1996 the company began an association with Laura Davies, perhaps the most famous woman golfer of all time, and now produces the LD Sports range, endorsed by her.
Eurostyle's Green Lamb range will now be entitled to carry the prestigious Ryder Cup logo, competing with other big names in the golf world such as Glenmuir, Ashworth and Oscar Jacobson.
Peter Dwyer, son of the founder, says the company had been knocking on the door for Ryder Cup recognition for the past six years. This year, perseverance won out and the Professional Golf Association asked Eurostyle to send samples of its wares. The final approval process took three months.
For a small, indigenous company it is a major breakthrough, he says.