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The Old Oaks of Wellington

Inspired by a recent article about retailers that unite neighbourhoods, I thought it timely to write a list of Wellington retailers/Hospo operators that I think display this special quality. Those ‘old oaks’ of the retail sector that have developed that special ability of becoming more than just a‘shop’. They are the old oaks we walk past everyday. They have that knack of drawing surrounding communities in and of bringing whole blocks back to life. They pull you off the street, because they feel like homes, away from home. In their own way, they provide a type of stability to an area. 

Of course there are a whole swag of them out there (thank goodness). These are just a few off the top of the dome. We raise our glasses to;

1. Slow Boat Records (Cuba St)
2. Thistle Hall (Cuba St)
3. Parson’s Books (Lambton Quay)
4. Peoples Espresso Bar (Constable St)
5. Riddiford Laundrette (Newtown)
6. Happy (Tory St)
7. Deluxe café

Of course this list may mean nothing to some people. But this list isn’t the point. I guess the point is, as I drive around these days – I see more and more “for lease” signs on shops that have closed for whatever reason. Retail/Hospitality is hard yakka. In a plethora of negative economic reporting - places like the ones on this list, shine bright and become that much more important.  They provide platform (happy), bring blocks back to life (Peoples Espresso, Constable St), provide a much needed service for the community (Riddiford Laundrette), or are simply places that make us feel that the world isn’t galloping off without us (Slow Boat). Qualities we use to associate the 'corner dairy' with - back in the day. More importantly – they are there, day after day, doing ‘their thang’ consistently. This develops trust and trust is an important thing as we turn this corner into a more positive economic climate. 
So, Cheers guys. You are appreciated.


_Shaun K Anderson

Tags // Retail, Recession, Economic Climate, Business, Hospitality, Wellington Icons, Deluxe Cafe, Slow Boat Records, Happy, thistle Hall, Parson's Books,

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