And that light is upon Rochester’s Major’s IGA ― a brighter, more spacious supermarket ― which will be unveiled on October 30 after redevelopment began in 2016.
The project has completely transformed the store from the ground up, all while remaining open throughout construction, so the community never had to go without their local supermarket.
Certain parts of the works were carried out early in the morning and at night, allowing the store to continue serving customers.
Owner Brad Major said seeing the redevelopment finally all come together had been satisfying ― and a relief.
“It’s pretty exciting, I suppose, to get to where we are,” he said.
“It’s been quite satisfying to see the reactions and the feedback from a lot of customers and suppliers and everybody who’s called through and told us.”
Mr Major said thoughtful planning around the size and layout of every department had been central to the redesign, resulting in wider, easier-to-navigate aisles and a much more comfortable shopping experience.
The redevelopment has made way for an expanded range of ready-to-go meals and freshly prepared food, a larger liquor section, updated refrigeration, modern lighting and flooring, and a smoother checkout experience.
Mr Major said community support had been particularly important, with customers and businesses across the wider Campaspe region encouraging the family to continue with the redevelopment.
“There’s a lot of people you don’t realise have been in the store who have commented on how good it looks,” he said.
“The community is very loyal, so we’re here to support not only Rochester but the wider community as well.”
Major’s considered relocating the supermarket to make the redevelopment much easier, but keeping the business in the heart of the town remained a priority.
“If we moved the supermarket out of the town centre, it was going to impact the main street of Rochester,” Mr Major said.
“It’s not only making things easier for us, but it was for Rochester to survive and keep going.”
The redevelopment marks an exciting new chapter for a family business that has been woven into the very fabric of Rochester since the early 1900s.
Mr Major’s father remains proud of the supermarket and its continued success, a sentiment shared by his uncle, who played an important role in the business during its earlier years.
Looking to the future, Mr Major said the supermarket would keep evolving to meet changing customer needs, embrace new technology and raise expectations ― all while staying true to its commitment to fresh produce and outstanding service.
“We will continue to offer great service and product, with a nice, fresh and inviting store,” he said.
Mr Major thanked the wider community, including businesses and customers, for supporting the supermarket through the redevelopment and the challenges of recent years.
