Drakes Supermarkets Expands Footprint with New Store at Former Coles Site in Mount Gambier

March 24, 2025 12:00 AM AEDT | By Team Kalkine Media

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Drakes Supermarkets Expands Footprint with New Store at Former Coles Site in Mount Gambier — Image source: shutterstock

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Highlights:

Drakes to open 69th store in South Australia

Over 150 new jobs expected in Mount Gambier

Store marks a full-circle moment for founder Roger Drake

Drakes Supermarkets, Australia’s largest independent grocery chain, is set to open its 69th store at the former Coles site in Mount Gambier, South Australia. The expansion represents a significant milestone for the company and a meaningful return for its founder, Roger Drake, who managed the same location more than 50 years ago before starting the Drakes brand in 1974.

In a strategic collaboration with Leyton Property, Drakes is undertaking a joint purchase and development project, expected to bring over 150 new job opportunities to the region. The store is scheduled to open its doors in late 2025.

The move comes as a major step forward for the Mount Gambier community, which has seen limited development in recent years. John-Paul “JP” Drake, Director of Drakes Supermarkets, emphasized the company's commitment to extending its presence beyond metropolitan areas like Adelaide.

“South Australia doesn’t just end at Adelaide, and the Blue Lake City has been neglected for far too long,” said JP Drake. “We’ve heard the people loud and clear and we are excited to be bringing the Drakes offer to Mount Gambier.”

The decision to take over a former Coles site is especially symbolic for the Drake family. Roger Drake once managed the Coles store in Mount Gambier before launching his own venture. JP Drake shared a personal anecdote, highlighting the full-circle nature of this expansion: “I’m so happy Coles told Dad he would never make it in this very store. Amazing what some hard work and support from the people around you can do.”

Coles Group (ASX:COL), one of the major supermarket chains in Australia, had previously occupied the site now being developed by Drakes. This transition underscores the evolving landscape of retail competition in the region.

With over 6,000 employees and an annual turnover exceeding $1 billion, Drakes has grown its presence across South Australia and Queensland. The Mount Gambier store not only adds to its store count but reinforces its roots and long-term vision for regional investment and growth.

This development signals continued momentum for Drakes and reflects an ongoing transformation within Australia’s grocery retail sector.

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