Rochester to farewell Twist and Sprout

Twist and Sprout began as a humble stall, popping up at various markets throughout the region, before Ms Solomano opened a store in Rochester.

Since its opening, community interest in a sustainable way of living and shopping has steadily grown.

Ms Solomano said the community’s support over the years had been overwhelming.

“If there's any one thing I want to put across ... it would be how awesome the community support has been,” she said.

“There's been so many people from all types of lifestyles and all areas of the community that have helped out and supported the shop.

“It's been really good and I feel like we've had a really positive impact on the planet as well as our community of Rochester.”

During its time in operation, the store has prevented the use of thousands of plastic bottles and pieces of packaging by buying in bulk.

It has also doubled as a collection point for several recycling charities, allowing people to drop off items to be sorted and sent for recycling.

As a collection point for the Victorian Container Deposit Scheme, the store has recycled more than 1.6 million containers and collected around $160,000 in refunds since 2023.

Ms Solomano said she had enjoyed seeing the positive impact the store has made.

“It was a tough decision to close down, partly because there isn't really anything like this in the area,” she said.

“(I’ve enjoyed) seeing the impact ... getting that feedback from people, seeing how they’re doing things differently and that I’ve been able to encourage a positive change.

“Hopefully, even once the shop isn’t here, it continues on in people’s thoughts and their decision-making.”

As she prepares to close in the near future, stock will be sold at discounted prices and opening hours will vary.

The Container Deposit Scheme and recycling station will continue to operate until further notice.

With the Criterion Hotel on the opposite side of Mackay St also shutting its doors, Rochester Business Network president Sanjay Ranchhod said it was sad to see local businesses closing.

“Both the Criterion and Twist and Sprout have made a difference in my life because I’m a patron for both,” he said.

“It is sad ... you don't want anyone to close, but unfortunately in the business (side), you have to make business decisions.”

Mr Ranchhod added that despite the closures, the Rochester business landscape was only continuing to strengthen.

“I can tell you now that Rochy is on the (rise)... there's so much happening,” he said.

“Business is thriving ... a couple of new businesses have opened already ... so businesses are operating and people are really investing in Rochy.

“There's a lot of homes being sold as well, and new families moving to the area. Rochy is alive and kicking.”