It was founded by members of the Quaker community in Ireland, whose business and financial and legal success in the 18th and 19th centuries are reflected in businesses associcated with Quaker family names such as, in Ulster linen – the Bell, Greer and Richardson families; in milling – the Davis, Malcomson, Pim, Goodbody, Grubb and Shackleton families; ship building and shipping – the Lecky, Malcomson, Pike, Pim, Bell, and Bewley families; and engineering – the Edmundson and Perry families, and in jam the Lamb family. The name also survives in Irish legal firm A&L Goodbody.

Quakers placed strong emphasis on keeping their word, hence their refusal to swear oaths. Their fundamental Christian principles were a foundation for their business success, in Ireland and Britain, where they also left their mark with the establishment of Lloyds & Barclays Banks.

Goodbody Stockbrokers in its website acknowledges this history stating: "We are proud that the Goodbody name has been part of Ireland’s economic story for centuries including our contribution to Ireland’s growth. From the Goodbody family’s earliest ventures, various Goodbody enterprises have made significant contributions to the country’s development over the years. Of the original 19th century brokers’ names, Goodbody is the only remaining one. So, after more than 145 years of stockbroking, the Goodbody name has endured, as has its tradition of hard work and commitment, and serving our clients".