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2022
Incorporating
Know your local Mansfield businesses thriving Wednesday, August 30, 2023
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By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY
THE seasons roll one into another in Mansfield, but the friendly, welcoming atmosphere never changes. Local business, both traders and professionals, are moving forward with some changes being made, business premises being upgraded, traders changing places (but remaining in town) while other businesses have new owners. But that excellent service never changes – all are there to help customers. One such business that recently had a ‘change of face at the helm’ is Stolz Home Furnishings. Robert Kemp officially takes over the business this Friday, September 1. Stolz have been around in Mansfield for almost 40 years bringing a wide range of furniture and household items. But the business name of Stolz has been around for a lot longer with Lawrence’s ancestors starting the business in Benalla, currently celebrating 120 years this year. However, after this long family journey current owner, Lawrence Stolz, has decided to retire and enjoy life a little more. As it happens a long-time family and business associate from Seymour, Robert Kemp, jumped at the chance to purchase the Mansfield business – sort of keeping it in the family. The business (on the corner of Highett and Early streets) will see a change of name and will be known as ‘Kemp’s Furniture and Bedding’. The re-established store, once set up to Robert’s liking, will carry a range of furniture and bedding including linen and is part of the Bestfurn buying group.
END OF AN ERA: Mansfield’s Stolz are hanging up their hat and welcoming another local business Kemp’s Furniture & Bedding in its place, Lawerence Stolz welcoming Robert Kemp to his new store. Current full time staff Rachel and Josh will retain their positions while Robert will be at Mansfield for three days each week. Robert said his father and Lawrence’s dad had been associated in the industry with Robert’s father starting the Kemp’s line in 1976 along with the Thomsons. About the same time they were all part of two buying groups, both of which have now changed. Robert will continue his Seymour association with the Bestfurn buying group and will specialise in bedding and linen, along with a few prints but not so much in other household items. Throughout the business center though it appears that Mansfield
is still very vibrant and has easily overcome the slump of the past two years. And while the snow season continues the visitors just keep on arriving; leading into spring which is official at the end of this week, even more visitors will arrive as camping grounds reopen and the weather warms up. Mansfield Shire Council’s general manager for business and economic development, Julie Williams, said supporting both new and existing businesses is a core role of council’s economic development team. “For those thinking of launching, taking over, or expanding a venture, we understand it can be difficult to know where to start, particularly
when it comes to the permit application process and the impact of regulations on your plans,” she said. “That’s why we’ve crafted a clear guide to simplify this process, which you can view on council’s website. “Our team is here at every juncture – from initial queries to postestablishment concerns. “We aim to offer clarity, ensure you liaise with the right people, and tailor support to meet your business needs.” Know your local is a campaign and reminder for everyone to drop into your favourite store and re-acquaint yourself with the owners and staff who are always willing to give you, the buyer, the best advice and service.
6XSSRUWLQJ 0DQVILHOG 6KLUH %XVLQHVV Council's Economic Development Team recently assisted in facilitating the NBN Co/MDBA breakfast at the Mansfield Golf Club, where NBN Co discussed their Business Fibre Initiative called Enterprise Ethernet with local service providers. Enterprise Ethernet is a business grade fibre that comes with a symmetrical profile - same upload and download speeds. It is available to Mansfield Shire businesses who qualify within the current fibre footprint. Visit nbnco.com.au or scan the QR code to find out your business eligibility. You can also contact Council's Economic Development team, who provide advice and support for both new and existing businesses, on the details below. FRXQFLO#PDQVILHOG YLF JRY DX
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