At the height of the Celtic Tiger in 2007, Thomas McNamara pulled off something of a property coup. McNamara, a colourful businessman in the midlands known locally as “Texas Tom”, sold a 3.6-acre site in the centre of Tullamore, Co Offaly for an eye-catching €42 million.    The “Texas Tom” moniker stemmed from a Texas Department Store outlet that McNamara had operated from the site. It was one of five buildings on the 3.6 acres, all arranged around a car park. Over the years, there was also a warehouse, a former Lifestyle Sports outlet, a former Tesco premises and a…

Want to read the full story?

Unlock this article – and everything else on The Currency – with an annual membership and receive a free Samsonite Upscape suitcase, retailing at €235, delivered to your door.

Subscribe

Cancel at any time.

Are you already a member? .