Business owners devastated following theft

THIS week a local couple spoke of their shock and anger following a disturbing attack on their business.

Suzanne Alcock Thompson and her husband John were left devastated when Asu, the Swords-based business they poured their hearts into, was robbed of thousands of euro worth of goods.

The couple, who pride themselves on having successfully started their business in a recession, suffered a major setback when their premises on Feltrim Road was ransacked on the night of Thursday, May 3.

The criminals went to extreme lengths to gain access to the building.

The business distributes exclusive nail and beauty supplies to hundreds of salons, spas, beauty training colleges and students throughout the country.

Devastated Suzanne described how she and her husband are still trying to come to terms with the robbery.

“This has been a devastating ordeal for us,

? she told Northside People.

“We were left with little or no stock coming up to a bank holiday so we spent the next few days frantically working with suppliers from 10 different countries to replenish our stock so that we would have something for our clients when we reopened on Tuesday.

“The day after the robbery we basically spent just sitting there taking it all in as we waited for forensics to carry out their examination of the scene.

“But then we tried to focus on getting back up and running rather than dwelling on what had happened.

“Our suppliers were absolutely fantastic and we worked with them right through the weekend to get shipments of products.

“We have been overwhelmed by the support and well-wishes we’ve received from our clients and suppliers.

?

Suzanne said she still found it hard to fathom how heartless and ruthless the culprits were.

“Even now I still find it hard to believe how anyone could do this to hardworking people who are just trying to make a living,

? she stated.

“We launched the business in a recession and we have grown it to be as successful as it is today through nothing other than hard work and dedication.

?

Asu employs three office staff and a team of educators who run training classes.

Further adding to Suzanne’s distress and loss was the theft of her laptop, which contained priceless pictures of her two young sons from when they were babies.

Suzanne is issuing an appeal to all those who work or are involved in the beauty industry to be mindful of any of the products stolen from Asu being sold.

The thieves stole many exclusive brands, including Astonishing Nails used for gel and acrylic nail extensions; Sun Labs Tanning used for professional spray tan applications; Hollywood Lashes and Perfect Match UV Nail Polish. All these products are for professional use only.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Asu on 8077066 or Swords Garda Station on 6664700.