And while the pandemic may not be completely behind us all, Gerard and Cynthia are looking forward to a bright 2021. “We are very proud to be celebrating the 100th anniversary, and are humbled at the occasion,” said Gerard.
We are very proud to be celebrating the 100th anniversary, and humbled at the occasion
“We are working hard to ensure the unique skills we have as furniture makers and upholsterers are passed down to the next generation”. And while many have done it tough over the last 12 months, demand has skyrocketed for their products. “Like everybody, we were nervous about what would happen as a result of the pandemic,” said Gerard.
The bigger showroom has allowed Sorrento Furniture to extend their range to include Stressless recliners and has enhanced the consumer experience.
“We owe a debt of gratitude for the strong support of locals who have allowed us to do what we are so passionate about", said Gerard. “We are proud that we are growing. We are employing more staff, and are proud to be passing on the skills to the next generation”. And what would Robert Walsh think of it all? “I think he’d be really pleased. He came from a generation that went through wars and a depression. He’d be proud we stuck it through our own challenging 2020 and came out smiling”.
“But we found that people were wanting to spend on quality Australian-made products.” In fact, they have been so busy that they have had to move to larger premises to keep up with demand. “We just couldn’t keep up with the work at our old location,” said Gerard. “The new location at 42 Watt Road in Mornington is more like a shop than a factory floor and allows us to present our products in the best possible light”.
Sorrento Furniture. 42 Watt Road, Mornington. P: 5975 0344. E: info@sorrentofurniture.com.au. W: sorrentofurniture.com.au
March 2021
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PENINSULA