Drakes Supermarkets has announced the upcoming opening of its 69th store, located at the former Coles site in the heart of Mount Gambier’s CBD.
After four years of vacancy, Drakes is breathing new life into the site, bringing a fresh and unique shopping experience to the local community. The site is a joint purchase and development project with Leyton Property, and a full refit will commence in the coming weeks. The store will become Drakes’ newest flagship store, creating over 150 new job opportunities for the region.
The reopening is particularly significant for Drakes Managing Director Roger Drake. Over 50 years ago, he managed the Coles store in Mount Gambier before leaving to open his own store.
After building Drakes into the successful family-owned business it is today, Mr Drake is returning to where it all began.
“It’s a full circle moment for me,” says Mr Drake. “I was once told I’d never make it in this industry. Coming back to revive this store for the Mount Gambier community is something I’m incredibly proud of.”
The Mount Gambier community can look forward to an enhanced shopping experience, featuring an expanded range of products tailored to meet the needs of locals, an extensive meat selection and quality fresh produce and a full-service delicatessen offering freshly sliced meats. Drakes will also introduce its innovative concepts, including The Little Kitchen, where customers can enjoy hot meals and salads made to order; and a café wall for quick and convenient on-the-go options.
“South Australia doesn’t just end at Adelaide, and the Blue Lake City has been neglected for far too long. We’ve heard the people loud and clear and we are excited to be bringing the Drakes offer to Mount Gambier.,” says John-Paul “Jp” Drake. “I’m so happy Coles told Dad he would never make it in this very store. Amazing what some hard work and support from the people around you can do.
“We’re looking forward to getting this support from the people of Mount Gambier and becoming a part of the local community. Drakes is committed to providing the Mount Gambier community with a trusted, family-owned store, that delivers exceptional value, high-quality products, competitive prices and the outstanding customer service the community deserves,” he said.
“We have a proud history and commitment to reinvesting our profits back into the state and communities in which we live and operate,” says Roger Drake. “We understand that the customer is our boss, if they’re not happy, we’re not happy.”
The store is set to open in late 2025.
