The beloved Smart Dollar store in Ballarat will close its doors after eight years of service at the Delacombe Town Centre, shocking the local community. The announcement came on Christmas Eve, leaving customers with just four weeks to shop at the discounted store known for its affordable seasonal items. The closure endangers the jobs of the five staff members currently employed there.
Community Response to Store Closure
On Boxing Day, Smart Dollar was bustling with shoppers eager not only for deals but also to sign a petition aimed at keeping the store open. Within three days, the petition amassed over 1,000 signatures across more than 60 pages. Store manager Sharon Sandwith expressed her deep disappointment about the closure, stating, “It’s pretty sad. It’s going to be really emotional.” She plans to present the petition to the store’s owner in hopes of relocating the business.
Despite the store’s popularity and strong sales performance, the closure is attributed to leasing issues rather than poor business. Sandwith noted, “It just comes down to leasing issues. Small businesses are getting tougher to run now because of the rents.” She indicated that negotiations regarding rent had minimal flexibility, contributing to the decision to close.
Impact on Staff and Future Prospects
The Smart Dollar store has consistently performed well compared to other locations. Sandwith highlighted the store’s commitment to providing excellent customer service, which she believes sets it apart from competitors. “We offer good, old-fashioned customer service here, which you don’t get in a lot of places anymore,” she said. Unfortunately, the closure means that the five employees will soon be out of work.
Finding a new, affordable location has proven challenging. Sandwith mentioned that other shopping centre options, such as Stockland, were not viable due to higher costs. She has discussed relocating to Bridge Mall; however, concerns about foot traffic remain a significant barrier. “He tends to prefer shopping centres where there’s strong foot traffic – places people like to go, with plenty of parking and amenities,” Sandwith explained.
As the closure date approaches, set for January 25, 2024, Sandwith revealed that DTC has already secured a new tenant for the site. The uncertainty surrounding the future of Smart Dollar leaves the community and its employees in a state of distress. “It’s the end, and who knows what happens next? I don’t know, but I am gutted,” she remarked.
The management at Delacombe Town Centre stated that leasing discussions are confidential between the centre and its business owners, and they could not disclose the identity of the new tenant at this stage. The situation highlights the challenges faced by small businesses in maintaining their presence in an increasingly competitive retail environment.
