Coles Supermarket Kilsyth to close, Dan Murphy’s looks to open

A longstanding Yarra Ranges Coles store is set to close its doors after more than 30 years, with a liquor giant a step closer to moving in.

Coles Kilsyth will close on February 13, after many decades in the area.

The Kilsyth Coles store is set to close its doors this week after more than 30 years in the area, with liquor giant Dan Murphy’s a step closer to moving in.

Coles has confirmed its Mt Dandenong Rd store will close on February 13, much to the disappointment of many customers.

Hundreds took to Facebook to express their dismay at the store’s closure, despite many saying it was “tiny” and had become rundown.

Steph Boesche shared the news of the closure online, and told Leader it was the end of an era.

“I remember I was hoping to get an after school job there back in 1985 when I applied to Coles; I was placed at Croydon instead, where I stayed as a second job until 1999,” she said.

“It’s always been a little, basic store, but suited the needs of the residents when it was built. “There was no Churinga Shopping Centre then. I believe if Coles had put more effort into their Kilsyth store, like a re-fit and a deli, it may have been some competition for Woolies.”

A Coles spokesperson said it was constantly evaluating its store network to ensure it was delivering the best shopping experience for customers, and as part of that process the Kilsyth store would close permanently on February 13.

“We are working closely with our team members during this transition period, including offering redeployment opportunities at other stores in our network,” the spokesperson said.

The nearest Coles stores for Kilsyth residents are in Mooroolbark, Croydon and Croydon North.

Meanwhile Dan Murphy’s has confirmed its plans to move into the site are progressing, with a liquor licence now approved.

Yarra Ranges councillors are set to vote on the development application at a meeting on February 22.

“We are pleased to have reached this point in the process of bringing our unique Dan Murphy’s concept to life in Kilsyth, and we are committed to continuing to work constructively and collaboratively with all stakeholders,” a Dan Murphy’s spokesperson said.

“We are committed to bringing a compelling customer experience that is locally relevant to the area.

“Customers will be able to discover from a range of more than 4000 products, including a big selection of premium wines, craft beer and craft spirits.”

If approved, Dan Murphy’s Kilsyth is expected to open in late 2022.