A PROMINENT Mount Gambier fresh produce business will relocate to the former Radio Rentals building amid a major shake-up to the city’s retail landscape.
She’s Apples Market – which operates on James Street – will move into the mothballed retail space adjacent the new ALDI and Coles developments.
Nearly $20m is being poured collectively into these two major projects on the former Target and Fidler’s sites, which is expected to create a bustling new retail precinct.
The future of the current She’s Apples site – along with the adjacent Coles Supermarket building – is not known.
Following months of speculation, She’s Apples director Phil Telfer yesterday confirmed the long-standing business had secured the former Radio Rentals site.
He said the manoeuvre would see the 30-year-old business usher in an exciting new chapter, which would drive growth opportunities for the retailer.
“With the retail landscape in Mount Gambier changing dramatically, we looked at what suited us and our customers best,” Mr Telfer said.
“We have to change with those times or we will fall behind. The business certainly sees it as a positive move going forward.”
Celebrating 30 years in business this year, Mr Telfer said extensive renovations would be made to the building to complement an “exciting new range of products and services.”
“It is vital to continue the success of our business to expand our offerings,” he said.
“The next step for us will be expanding our popular artisan cheese, small goods, ready-to-go meals and everyday grocery lines.
“We want to provide our loyal customers with a fresh, new and exciting shopping environment.”
Mr Telfer foreshadowed the refurbishments at the new building could be completed by mid April, 2020.
“We cannot confirm what will happen to our current James Street premises,” Mr Telfer said.
“Once we leave, it will be up to the landlords.”
Mr Telfer revealed there were exciting opportunities for the business given the expansive footprint of the former Radio Rentals building.
The new store will be nearly double the size of its current location.
“It will allow us to enhance our customers’ shopping experience,” Mr Telfer said.
“We look to continue our strong cafe growth and would like to offer customers dine-in or take-away, on-the-go meal options.”
Mr Telfer also flagged the need to boost its workforce at the new site with extended trading hours anticipated.
“We hope this will allow greater flexibility for customers,” he said.
“Our ever-expanding wholesale and online presence will be enhanced with extra-space planned for business and online shoppers.
“We thank those who have supported the business over the past 30 years and we look forward to the exciting new chapter ahead.”
The ALDI warehouse, along with four shop spaces, is expected to be completed before Christmas.
The Coles development -which includes 10 speciality stores – is earmarked to be completed mid next year.
Developers have yet to announce what retailers will move into these shop spaces.
