Oakleigh Central management won’t renew Gum Tree Coffee Lounge contract
A popular cafe at an Oakleigh shopping centre has been booted after management decided to “refresh” retailers — and an 11th-hour petition signed by hundreds of angry customers has done little to sway the tough stance.
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A more than 700-signature petition to save a popular cafe has fallen on deaf ears, with Oakleigh Central management denying public requests to let the business stay.
Centre management refuse to renew Hiep Nguyen’s contract for Gum Tree Coffee Lounge at the Hanover St shopping precinct, preferring to “refresh” their retailers.
Monash Leader previously reported the cafe’s contract expired on December 31.
But angry customers rallied behind Mr Nguyen who has been fighting for a change of heart.
The 11th-hour petition, started by long-time customers Glenda Quilty and Evelyn Harvey, has been presented to management and Oakleigh state Labor MP Steve Dimopoulos.
Ms Quilty said the cafe was “unique”.
“It’s the only one which provides a diverse menu not available elsewhere,” she said.
“The Gum Tree caters for people who have food issues such as diabetes, gastric issues and allergies.”
Mr Nguyen said the situation was “not good”.
“They will not change their mind even though we have over 700 signatures for the petition. “Everyone is very upset and disappointed,” he said.
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Centre manager Anna Hickling said the petition had not prompted a change of heart on the future of The Gum Tree.
“Our approach is to always look at how we can refresh our retailer mix and we will continue to do so, to ensure we’re meeting the changing needs and expectations of our customers and the broader Oakleigh community,” she said.