Wollongong's Levers art store marks more than 70 years
An art store that opened in 1955 survives through treating customers like family and staying cheaper than online rivals.
Levers art supplies first opened on Auburn Street in 1955, then moved to Flinders Street where it has stood for more than 70 years. The store is now sandwiched between new high-rise apartments.
Renee Clegg has worked there for 30 years. Clegg says the store survives by giving great service.
"We treat everyone like family," she said. "We find customers the best value.
We are likely to downsell rather than upsell because we know our products so well." The store stays cheaper than online shops.
It absorbs costs like payment fees and free bags rather than charging customers. Clegg's mother Ann still works there at 82.
The store has Dutch roots going back to the 1600s. Parking is tough now, with big buildings going up around them.
But the staff still enjoy helping artists discover new tools and materials.
- More than 70 years
- Years operating in Wollongong
- 30 years
- Renee Clegg tenure
- 82 years old
- Ann Lever age
- 1955
- Store founded
Why it mattersA local independent business thrives by putting customer relationships first, showing how small shops can compete against chains and online stores.
AustraliaA Wollongong institution remains accessible to local artists and makers, proving small independent retailers can thrive even when surrounded by new commercial developments.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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