Geelong West’s Geoffreys Kitchen and Gifts closes after 42 years

After nearly half a decade in Geelong West, Geoffreys Kitchen and Gifts is shutting up shop, a “sad sign of the times”.

Geoffreys Kitchen and Gifts owner Cheryl Davis will bid farewell to her store after 43 years in business. Picture: Alan Barber

After nearly five decades, family-owned Geoffreys Kitchen and Gifts is closing, a move the owners call a “sad sign of the times”.

Co-founder Cheryl Davis said she and her husband opened the doors 43 years ago, setting up shop while their two young sons played lego in the doorway.

At the height of their business operations, the couple had Geoffreys Kitchen Stores in Belmont, Highton, Geelong and Geelong West.

The Pakington St homewares shop, set to close soon, is the couple’s last remaining store.

With both sons now caring for children of their own, Ms Davis said she and her husband were ready to enjoy retirement and forget the struggles of small business.

“I’m very upset that it’s not going to be here anymore, but all things come to an end,” Ms Davis, now 75, said.

“Nobody in the family wanted to continue with it.

After 43 years, Geoffreys Kitchen and Gifts closes is closing down. Picture: Alan Barber

“It’s a sign of the times.

“This street is losing so many of its retail stores.

“Soon it’s just going to be services here, which is sad, it’s always been a highlight of Geelong, Pakington St.”

Ms Davis said during that time they had acquired three generations of loyal customers.

“And they become part of your family,” she said.

“It just going to be sad.

“It’s been a wonderful place to be.”

She said the would remain open at 127 Pakington St until all stock was sold. 

Originally published as Geelong West’s Geoffreys Kitchen and Gifts closes after 42 years