2 days ago
Hannans Boulevard traders call for support during lull after IGA's departure ahead of Spudshed's arrival
Hannans Boulevard traders are begging the community not to forget them as the centre awaits the arrival of SpudShed's new store.
With IGA Hannans officially moved out of the space ahead of Spudshed's arrival — expected in August — businesses say they are already experiencing a drop in sales.
Evelyn Dennis, owner of Pasta2Go's sister business So Much More, said the Boulevard-based eatery had already suffered a 50 per cent decrease in sales in the past week.
Determined to try to maintain consistent opening hours during the lull, she said the business simply would not survive if sales dropped any lower.
'We actually didn't think IGA leaving would interrupt us too much because we have that wonderful play centre for all our kids but it has, we are very quiet,' she said.
'The first week it didn't really change for us but I think that's because people were still coming up because they didn't realise IGA was closed.
'But this week we have already dropped 50 per cent down. It's really worrying and we are trying to soldier on and do the best we can
. . . but we keep hearing from the community that they thought the whole centre was closed.
'We are all very open here, so please don't forget us and please help us get through this period — all of us.
'We have already had some of our amazing loyal customers say they have popped in specifically to support us which is so kind, and we are so thankful for everyone's support during this time.'
Little Poppy Lane, TH Lounge, Wizard Pharmacy, and Australia Post are still trading in the centre.
As a huge Spudshed supporter — regularly doing trips to Perth for produce to use in both local businesses — Mrs Dennis said she was excited for Spudshed to be taking over the site.
'It's going to be amazing for business and for families, too,' she said.
'He's such a lovely man (Spudshed owner Tony Galati) and he is going to bring so much goodness to this town.
'He's got wonderful plans for up here and it's just going to be so fantastic.
'We know it is going to be madness once he does open up but until then we just really need the community's support.'
Mr Galati, his son Frankie and management visited Kalgoorlie-Boulder last month to plan for the new store which is expected to open by August.
Mr Galati told the Kalgoorlie Miner during that visit that he hoped to attract more shoppers and retailers to the complex.
