Husband and wife team, Peter and Leonie, have been retailers at Margaret River Newsagency for almost two years. They previously owned and operated Vaucluse Newsagency in South Perth, before settling in the popular holiday destination in the South West.
From having a customer base that was largely the same week to week, they now see holiday makers and backpackers from all over the world.
“I couldn't believe the number of magazine titles that were in the shop, but it blew me away just how many of them sold – it’s because we have all walks of life coming through the doors,” Leonie said.
With major roadworks starting in February followed by COVID-19, the couple experienced a “double whammy” of hardship and had to make some tough decisions to reduce trading hours and staff.
Max, their four-year-old golden labrador, has brought a little more joy to their store. He makes customers laugh with his antics, and regulars are disappointed when they don’t see his face first thing in the morning.
“He has a selection of stuffed toys at the shop that he likes to walk around with. In the mornings he's out on the footpath greeting customers and escorts them back to the shop,” Peter said.
With intrastate borders open, Peter says things are slowly returning to normal and hopes that the town will soon regain its momentum. Next time you’re in the area, pop in and say hi to Peter and Leonie and give Max a pat for us!
