by Mr McGlade was the founder of numerous well-known brands, including Champion Sports, the laser eye surgery chain Optilase and the skin treatment specialist Therapie.
His family has paid tribute to his career and the “joy” he had with his children and grandchildren.
Mr McGlade was born in Belfast on 12 June 1955. He began working in the markets of Northern Ireland at a young age before moving to Dublin in the late 1970s.
He founded Apollo on the city’s Moore Street, a place that his family said “became a mecca for bargain hunters.”
He then founded the sportswear shop Champion Sports and later Thérapie Clinic and Optilase.
Paul married Rita in 1981 and the couple had four children, Paul, Philip, Katie and William, all of whom entered the professional world. He and Rita later separated but remained “good and loyal friends”, the family said.
In their statement, they highlighted qualities such as his “childlike curiosity,” his work ethic and his “innate talent for recognizing people’s desires.”
They said he was “incredibly proud of his children and their achievements.”
“But commercial success never blinded him to the joy he felt in the company of his children and six grandchildren. They, he liked to say, were the true richness of his life.”
Friends also paid tribute to him on social media. Prof. Dr. Patrick Treacy said on LinkedIn that he was “deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my great friend Paul McGlade.”
“We have shared over 25 years of precious memories and lasting friendship. From our beginnings at the Therapy Clinic, where I had the privilege of being its first Medical Director in 2001, to the time I spent training staff in Birmingham a year later, our journey together has been full of shared experiences and mutual respect.
“Our adventures also included a time in Goa, where we enjoyed moments of togetherness and shared laughter.
“Paul’s company always brought me joy and companionship and left a lasting impression on my heart.
“We will miss his presence very much and the memories we created will always have a special place in my heart.
“Paul’s family would like to express my deepest condolences during this difficult time. May the fond memories of Paul bring you comfort and encouragement.”
News catch-up date: Monday, August 12, 2024
