Two side-by-side businesses in Rockhampton have rebranded with new owners

Two popular side-by-side businesses on East Street that are celebrating new beginnings, with changing names and ownership.

Roy and Mary Aloysius are the new owners of Coffee Society. Supplied: Coffee Society

Two businesses side-by-side on East Street are on the cusp of new beginnings, with changing names and ownership.

Rockhampton’s well-known menswear retailer is now known as Burke in Style Menswear, replacing the Mark Bunt Menswear signage that has remained in place for years.

This name change reflects the ownership under Brett and Sonya Burke, who took over the business in late 2021 after going into partnership with Mark Bunt since 2015.

While the name has changed, all ownership remains local.

Brett Burke, who with partner Sonya, took over Mark Bunt Menswear in 2021.

“I felt it was the perfect time to rebrand with the arrival of new season stock and some exciting new brands,” Brett said.

The name change marks a milestone in the store’s rich 45-year history.

The business was originally Norm’s Menswear, founded by Norm and Di Jeha, then became Mark Bunt Menswear when Mark and Sue purchased it about 30 years ago.

Times have changed and so has Mark Bunt Menswear, now Burke in Style Menswear.Photo Contributed

“Customers should always know they’re supporting a locally owned and run business,” Brett said.

“It is an exciting time for the business.”

Above all, Brett values the customer experience.

“We pride ourselves on ensuring every customer leaves not only satisfied with their purchase but also with how they were treated in-store,” said Brett.
The change in name does not affect any existing store credits or vouchers from Mark Bunt Menswear; they will still be honoured.

Former Coffee Society Rockhampton owners Spencer and Ayden Chapman.

Right next door is the popular Coffee Society, which now has new owners.

Roy and Mary Aloysius will be taking over the beloved hospitality venue.
In a Facebook post, they assured locals there was a strong future for the venue.

“Rocky people, your support means the world to me, and I’m here to listen, improve, and make your experience even better!”
“I feel incredibly lucky to take the reins and continue the great work that’s already been done here.”

Stockland Rockhampton Shopping Centre. Picture: Aden Stokes

Meanwhile, the new Aldi store has opened at Stockland Rockhampton Shopping Centre.

It’s exciting news at a time when cost-of-living is impacting businesses, such as the Bavarian restaurant across from the shopping centre.

Capricornia Chamber of Commerce President Jason Foss said some businesses in the retail and hospitality industry are struggling.
“Cafes and small local retailers are definitely feeling it,” he said.

“Their costs are going up, they can’t necessarily pass that on because people’s budgets are tight anyway.
“I know a lot of businesses that would open longer if they could staff them.”

Originally published as Two side-by-side businesses in Rockhampton have rebranded with new owners