Two businesses in the town have recently announced their closures.
Behind business closures, there is always the human story that can be forgotten about.
That's according to Athlone Chamber of Commerce CEO, Tommy Hogan, as two businesses in the town announced their closures this week.
Both Coffee Haven and Kafe U in Athlone are closing their doors for the final time, with the former coming under new ownership.
Mr Hogan is making the call for grant applications to be simplified: