Eastland’s longest-serving retailer The Fresh Chook Shed closes after failed rental negotiations
A popular chicken shop which was the longest-serving retailer at one of Melbourne’s biggest shopping centres has pulled the pin suddenly after 25 years. And they’re not the only big name to leave the centre.
Outer East
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Eastland’s longest serving retailer has left the building after a 25-year association with the centre.
The Fresh Chook Shed, located on level one near Woolworths, closed suddenly late last month, with Eastland signage now surrounding its old space.
Maroondah Leader heard reports in May the shop could close – which were rejected by staff, owner Brad Macgregor-Skinner and centre management.
At the time, Eastland general manager Greg Balmforth said the centre was in confidential discussions with The Fresh Chook Shed over its lease renewal.
Mr Balmforth confirmed the business had closed following further discussions.
“Out of respect for our retail partners, it would be inappropriate to comment further on confidential lease negotiations,” he said.
Mr Brad Macgregor-Skinner’s father, Bruce, opened a Leonard’s chicken franchise at Eastland in 1994.
His son, Brad, took over and rebranded the business when Bruce retired in 2014.
A new chicken shop — Poultry Creations — will open shortly at Eastland but will not be operated by the crew from The Fresh Chook Shed or located in its old space.
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Meanwhile, the centre’s outdoor dining scene has also taken a hit after the Abacus All Day cafe closed in Ringwood Town Square in September.
The cafe, an offshoot of a popular restaurant on South Yarra’s Chapel St, was open for less than two years.
Maroondah Leader understands a company associated with the cafe was liquidated, leading to its closure. A replacement is yet to be confirmed.
“Eastland continues to experience strong demand for retail space and we look forward to welcoming several exciting new retailers before the end of the year,” Mr Balmforth said.
In better news for Town Square visitors, hotly anticipated new entertainment offerings Strike Bowling and Holey Moley mini golf will open on Thursday, December 5.
The bowling alley will have eight lanes while the mini golf course will feature two never-before-seen hole designs.