Owner Garry Alexander in Tatura Emporium’s main street store, which has quickly begun attracting locals since opening in mid-May with its mix of affordable gifts, books and everyday essentials.
A new variety and discount store has quietly joined Tatura’s main street, with Tatura Emporium opening its doors in mid-May and already beginning to build a steady local following.
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Owner Garry Alexander said the decision to bring the business to Tatura came after years of working in different spaces and being encouraged by locals to establish something in the town.
“I was doing craft markets and swap meets, and a local real estate agent said, ‘Why don’t you bring your business to Tatura?’” he said.
After viewing a vacant shop in a prime main street location, the decision was made quickly.
“I had the perfect spot,” Garry said.
“People often walk down this end of town, so it made sense to be here.”
Now open six-days-a-week, and trialling extended hours depending on demand, Tatura Emporium offers a broad mix of affordable goods including second hand items, gifts, books, homewares and more.
The shop’s back section is filled with books priced at just a few dollars, while greeting cards range from $1 to $3.
Artificial and fresh-style flowers, gift bags, wrapping paper, household items, gardening supplies, puzzles and toys are also available.
“There’s a bit of everything,” Garry said.
“We’ve tried to make it different from other shops in town. It’s more of a variety store with affordable prices.”
He said the response from the community had been warm, particularly as he was locally born and bred.
“I’ve had people come in and say ‘welcome home’,” he said.
“It’s been really nice.”
While the business is still in its early stages and relying largely on word of mouth, Garry said he was focusing on building gradually.
“I’m not expecting big miracles straight away,” he said.
“It’s about getting established and letting people know we’re here.”
Tatura Emporium is also helping locals access everyday essentials without needing to travel to larger centres.
“For some people, it saves a trip to Shepparton,” he said.
“When you factor in fuel and parking, it all adds up.”
Located in the main street, the store is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 4.30pm, and Saturdays from 9am to 1pm.
Garry said his main hope was simple: to become part of the community fabric and welcome more locals through the door.
“I just like seeing people come in, having a chat, and making them feel like they’re welcome.”
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