What's selling in Shepparton

The central town of Shepparton is situated 179km north of Melbourne and is a major centre in the Goulburn Valley. The town is home to 28,000 people and has been described by local retailers as a modern and upbeat rural country town. Shepparton is home not only to superb retail outlets, but also to a substantial amount of the state's agriculture including vegetables, cereals, milk products and fruit.
Marianne Spencer, owner of Ann's Maternity Wear says the town is expanding rapidly.
"Shepparton is a growing city. There are plenty of job opportunities (in various industries) for everyone."
Ann's Maternity has been trading in the town for nine years and has obtained a steady flow of loyal clients. The store caters to babies, kids up to the age of ten and women's maternity wear. Brands include Le Bonds and Peter Rabbit for babies, Osh Kosh and Fred Bare for children, and Ripe and Maternity Plus for the mothers to be. Ann's Maternity Wear is one of the few maternity shops in the town's central buisness district.
Shelly Sutton, manager of women's boutique Studio Lane describes the town as "a huge multicultural community".
Established 17 years ago, Studio Lane's main customers are local residents aged 30 and upwards. The store stocks a wide range of labels including Line 7, Uliser Knit wear, Andiamo, Resort Report, 2aT and G2.
Although Shelly Sutton believes that "high rent and local laws" effect retailing in Shepparton, she says that a major benefit of having a retail store in the town is that "Shepparton is a major town that draws people in from surrounding communities".
Brenden O'Keeffe, owner of O'Keeffe Menswear also believes Shepparton has a lot to offer to the community and outlying towns.
"Shepparton is a modern, vibrant and terrific retail center," says O'Keeffe.
"If someone wanted some great shops Shepparton is the place to be."
The store was first set up in 1956 and caters to men aged between 16 and 55.

LOCATION 179km north of Melbourne
POPULATION 28,000
STORES Ann's Maternity Wear, Studio Lane, O'Keeffe Menswear
BRANDS Peter Rabbit, Fred Bare, Ripe, Line 7, Resort Report