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Drakes Supermarkets is poised to expand its presence with the acquisition of IGA Mount Compass, elevating its total number of stores to 68 across South Australia and Queensland. This new addition is situated in a community that has seen IGA Mount Compass thrive under the stewardship of three generations of the Hicks family for more than two decades.
IGA Mount Compass has been an integral part of the Mount Compass area for 24 years, earning the respect and loyalty of the local residents. The transition to Drakes is expected to be smooth, with a continuation of the store’s deeply ingrained community relationships. Melita Hicks, the outgoing owner of IGA Mount Compass, reflected on the store’s history and its connection with the community. “The Hicks family would like to thank our community for their amazing support over the last 24 years. Without your backing and encouragement, we could not have made our store what it is today. We have been indebted to our staff for their hard work and dedication over the years and wish them all the best. We thank Drakes for retaining our wonderful team and wish them every success for the future ahead,” she stated.
As part of the transition, Drakes is dedicated to maintaining the strong community ties established by the Hicks family. This includes the continued employment of the existing team members at the store, ensuring that the local community will still see familiar faces. Customers of the newly branded Drakes store can anticipate an expanded product range especially tailored to local tastes, including quality meats and fresh produce, which will be supplied directly from Drakes’ own Distribution Centre in Edinburgh.
Roger Drake, Managing Director of Drakes, acknowledged the legacy of the Hicks family and the high standards they set for the store. “I know that we have big shoes to fill as the Hicks family has done an incredible job; but we will continue to deliver on customer service and hope to exceed customers’ expectations,” he said.
The rebranding of IGA Mount Compass to Drakes is scheduled for 25th November 2024, marking a new chapter for the store while aiming to preserve its local charm and appeal.
Drakes Supermarkets prides itself on being a leading family-owned and operated grocery retailer in Australia. Currently employing over 6,000 personnel, it holds the title of Australia’s largest independent grocery group. The company continues its long-standing tradition of backing local suppliers and farmers, thereby reinforcing its commitment to the communities it serves.
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