Desi’s Fabric and Blinds celebrated 45 years as part of Parker Street’s business landscape on Thursday.
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The business was established by Don and Neta Manwaring and Des and Mary Guthrie in 1973 with Des’s name inspiring the business title.
Don and Neta’s son Geoff joined the family business at 16, straight from school, while siblings Bill and Wendy came on board in 1991 when Des and Mary retired from the business.
Today, Geoff and Wendy, together with staff member Cheryl, are the friendly faces customers find when they visit.
Wendy is proud to be following in her parent’s footsteps and the reputation for quality Desi’s has in the community.
“You can’t help but be proud (to reach the 45-year milestone),” Wendy said.
She puts the continued success of the business down to loyalty from customers; loyalty which is bred from long-lasting products and a high standard of customer service.
“We have a lot of people who keep coming back,” Wendy said.
The business has changed over the years from its initial focus on dress fabrics, haberdashery, curtains and blinds to today stocking manchester and continuing to install window furnishings across the Riverina.
The birthday celebration coincides with what is traditionally a busy time of the year as locals and visitors take note of the attractive window displays and pop in to do their Christmas shopping.
“December is always one of our busiest months,” Wendy said.
The birthday was marked with late night trading and a complimentary chocolate for customers and the many well-wishers who stopped by.
With 45 years of operation of the family business now complete, Wendy and Geoff have no plans to slow down anytime soon.
“We always want to do the best for the community,” Wendy said.