The first Dunnes Stores on Patrick's Street Cork city opened on March 31, 1944, by founder Ben Dunne. The store's opening caused a "shopping frenzy" as people flocked to buy clothing at pre-war prices, with crowds so large that police had to be called to manage the situation and a window was forced in. Opening date: March 31, 1944. Location: St. Patrick's Street, Cork. Founder: Ben Dunne. Significance: It was the first store for the company and quickly gained popularity for its "better value" cl