AFTER 15 years of dressing the men of Wonthaggi, Panthers Menswear will close its local store for good on Saturday, July 12.
The decision marks the end of a long stint for the Panther family, who first opened in Wonthaggi in 2010 – initially at another site before moving to their current Graham Street location nine years ago.
Owner David Panther said opening the Wonthaggi store had simply been “an opportunity.”
“We saw a gap in the market, and we were already getting customers from Wonthaggi at our other stores,” he said.
Over the years, the team built up a loyal customer base in town.
“We’ve gotten to know a lot of people and we’ve really enjoyed our time here,” Mr Panther said.
“We’d just really like to thank the people for shopping with us and invite them to continue shopping with us at Leongatha.”
The closure follows the end of the Wonthaggi store’s current lease and comes as David and his wife Sue begin turning their thoughts towards downsizing, and eventually retirement.
But Panthers Menswear is far from done – with the business continuing at its Leongatha, Moe and Traralgon stores.
“No one will be out of a job,” Mr Panther said, referring to their remaining Wonthaggi staff member, who will transition to the Leongatha store.
Established by Bill Panther in 1955, the family-run business has long been known for offering quality men’s fashion and genuine, personalised service – a tradition David and Sue enthusiastically maintain today.
As a thank you to customers, everything in the Wonthaggi store is now on sale until the final day of trade. Shoppers can also pick up a discount card to use at
Panthers’ other locations.
“If you haven’t yet, do yourself a favour and come and have a look at some good quality brands and get yourself a bargain,” Mr Panther said.
“Thanks very much for shopping with us over the years. We look forward to seeing you in Leongatha.”
