’Mixed emotions’: Reason behind duo’s decision to sell business

Today is the start of a new chapter for one mother and daughter who have sold their popular store after seven years in business.

Nothing can compare to the special bond shared between a mother and daughter, especially when you call each other business partners too.

Rebecca McGrath knew she always wanted to buy a business so when the opportunity arose and her local newsagency was listed for sale, she decided to purchase the store with her mum, Val Weier.

Now, after seven memorable years of owning and running Newsxpress Laidley, the co-owners have sold the business with plenty of exciting plans for the future ahead.

“We’ve certainly got mixed emotions about the sale of the business, but we’re also looking forward to starting our next chapters,” Ms McGrath said.

“For our entire lives we have been part of the Laidley community and we are so grateful for the support we have received over the past seven years … it has been a delight to come to work and serve our customers.”

Rebecca McGrath and her mum Val Weier as NewsXpress Laidley is set to change hands, Wednesday, June 22, 2022. Picture: Kevin Farmer

The mum and daughter team made the bittersweet decision when Val, who is aged in her 60s, decided it was time to retire.

Her only child Rebecca said she couldn’t imagine continuing without her mum by her side.

“Mum and I came into this business together, so it was important for us to go out together too,” she said.

“Honestly, (doing this with her) has been the best part and I will cherish these years because it has been such a wonderful experience to share this with my mum.”

And while the memories are all pleasant, the pair couldn’t help but reflect on the interesting times too, including the steep learning curve involved with running a newsagency for the first time and going into business with your family.

Val Weier will be retiring and her daughter Rebecca McGrath will be going travelling as NewsXpress Laidley is set to change hands, Wednesday, June 22, 2022. Picture: Kevin Farmer

“We have our moments like everyone, but thankfully we have a great relationship – not every mother and daughter could go into business together,” Ms Weier said.

“Rebecca is my best friend … we’ve got the same sense of humour and we know what the other one is thinking with just one look.”

Experienced business owners, and Lockyer Valley couple, Malcolm and Jenelle Carlsen will take over the newsagency from today and their predecessors believe they are the perfect fit.

Heading into retirement, Val is looking forward to travelling with her husband and spending more time with her two grandsons.

While Rebecca plans to take a well-deserved break and is going on a two-month-long caravanning trip with her husband and children.

She said when she returns, she is open to exploring new and unknown opportunities, but one thing is for sure – the duo plan to always call Laidley home.