The Store Deans Marsh is a much-loved gem on the Surf Coast and a major hub on the Otway Tourist Region. Up for sale is this popular regional general store as a going concern, with an option to purchase the freehold, land and residential cottage.
Sitting on a 2,203 m2 corner block in the heart of town, The Store has an enormous outdoor dining and family play area adjacent to The Store building, alongside extensive private gardens for The Cottage. It is fully fenced and landscaped and provides ample car parking for customers, guests and residents.
The current owners have invested substantially in improvements for the business including a new kitchen with state-of-the-art commercial equipment, an upgraded wastewater system, new fit out for front counter, fully refurbished outdoor bathroom area, extensive landscaping, internal and external paint, resurfaced carpark, commercial food production equipment and an on-premise liquor license. Also included in the sale of the business is a very attractive website, point of sale system and security system.
The Store has recently expanded its own range of preserves, sauces and meals and is in the process of developing a wholesale range for broader distribution. It also provides an extensive range of groceries, produce, fresh fruit and vegetables, giftware and a substantial café operation with a focus on home-made treats using locally sourced produce. The business currently operates 7-days a week with good annual turnover from local trade and excellent turnover during the peak summer tourist period. The outdoor area of The Store is the highlight for this business and is very popular with Lorne customers travelling to and from their holiday homes or on their way to do business and shopping in Colac.
Trading is consistent throughout the year and peaks during summer as tourists flock to the Great Ocean Road, Surfcoast and Otways. A healthy mix of cafe, general store, local produce, liquor and giftware provides a good platform for growth, with capability to expand the licensed cafe, wholesale produce and online sales of Store branded produce. The current owners have improved profitability to 20% of sales by focusing on delivering quality produce at healthy product margins and an efficient cost structure. Margins exceed 50% and staffing costs are less than 20% of sales, leaving healthy profit margins for new owners.
The Cottage has three double bedrooms and home office, with a fully renovated kitchen and new carpet throughout. Heating is a slow combustion wood fire, with reverse cycle air conditioning for the warmer months. There is a lovely northwest facing deck ideal for evening drinks or watching the family play cricket in the huge yard. Extensive perimeter planting ensures privacy from The Store and neighbours, creating a picture-perfect country home. The views from the windows are of extensive farmland and the Deans Marsh Creek and the only noises you will hear at night are the frogs and the occasional cow.
The Cottage is currently hosted as a bed and breakfast and all guests have left outstanding 5 star reviews.
Included in the freehold is a large storage shed with barn doors that includes a fully lined, floored and heated office and gym space. The space is absolutely gorgeous and could easily be converted to a yoga studio or guest accommodation (STCA).
This is your opportunity to purchase a local icon and walk-in with little further investment required, other than your own ideas to take this business to the next level.
Please note the price quoted is for going concern business and chattels plus stock at value. The freehold, land and buildings will be quoted separately upon signing of a non-disclosure agreement. Please contact us for more details.
Inspection by appointment.
Disclaimer:
Whilst every care has been taken to verify the accuracy of the details in this advertisement, For Sale By Owner (forsalebyowner.com.au Pty Ltd) cannot guarantee its correctness. Prospective buyers or tenants need to take such action as is necessary, to satisfy themselves of any pertinent matters.
