Drakes supermarket to open at Mount Gambier in late 2025

Amid swirling rumours, one of SA’s biggest supermarket operators has confirmed the location of its latest store. See the images.

A concept image of the Mount Gambier Drakes.

Drakes Supermarkets will open its 69th store at a former Coles site in Mount Gambier – a location with a special meaning for the Drake family.

Drakes founder and managing director Roger Drake managed the former Coles store more than 50 years ago before leaving to open his own store, despite being told he could “never make it in this industry”.

“It’s a full-circle moment for me,” Mr Drake said. “Coming back to revive this store for the Mount Gambier community is something I’m incredibly proud of.”

The site, a joint purchase and development between Drakes Supermarkets and Leyton Property, has been vacant for four years.

A concept image of the Mount Gambier Drakes.

The store is set to open in late 2025 and is expected to create 150 jobs for the region.

A refit of the store will start in the coming weeks.

A Drakes statement said the store would feature an expanded range of products, an extensive meat selection, a full-service delicatessen offering freshly-sliced meats and ‘The Little Kitchen’, a new concept providing hot meals and salads made to order.

The store will also include a cafe wall for quick and convenient on-the-go options.

Drakes director JP Drake said the Blue Lake City had been neglected for far too long and the chain had “heard the people loud and clear”.

“I’m so happy Coles told Dad he would never make it in this very store,” he said.

“Amazing what some hard work and support from the people around you can do.”

Originally published as Drakes supermarket to open at Mount Gambier in late 2025