In a moment that brings the Drakes story full circle, South Australia’s largest family-owned and operated independent supermarket chain is coming to Mount Gambier – in the very store where founder Roger Drake was told he would never be successful in the retailing industry over five decades ago.
The new Drakes Mount Gambier store at 25 James Street officially opens to the public on 15 October, marking a significant milestone in the company’s 50-plus year journey of family business, resilience, and regional investment.
“It’s a full circle moment – from serving the Mount Gambier community over 50 years ago as a young employee of a multi-national supermarket, to now returning with our family-owned and operated independent supermarket.
“We’re proud to offer a unique shopping experience and create local jobs, supporting Mount Gambier families for generations to come,” said Managing Director Roger Drake.
Spanning over 4,000sqm, Drakes Mount Gambier is part of a joint venture with Leyton Property, transforming a long vacant site into Drakes’ “state-of-the-art” flagship and bringing a renewed sense of energy to the community.
“Leyton Property is proud to partner with Drakes Supermarket in the development of the new Mount Gambier location. We’re confident this project will be embraced by the vibrant Southeast community and contribute meaningfully to the region’s growth,” said Hamish Brown, Managing Director of Leyton Property.
Drakes Mount Gambier employs over 120 locals and features several new in-store experiences.
Drakes’ in-house food concept, The Little Kitchen, serves hot meals and fresh salads made to order, while Nonna’s Pasta offers freshly made pasta, cooked in store. Customers can also treat themselves to the popular F’Real thickshake machine or refresh with freshly squeezed orange juice. For added convenience, busy shoppers can take advantage of Drakes online shopping and enjoy Feed Me platters, freshly prepared in store and perfect for entertaining.
“We’re so excited to be joining the Limestone Coast community and the support we’ve already received from the people of Mount Gambier is by far the biggest we’ve had for any store opening. It cements that we are making the right decision to invest in SA’s regional communities, and really shows that South Australia doesn’t end at Adelaide,” said John-Paul Drake, Director of Drakes Supermarkets.
“This store has all the new toys Drakes has to offer. If you try anything in our store, make sure it’s the mint-chip F’real thickshake with a shot of espresso!”
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.
Drakes Supermarkets Director John-Paul Drake.
