Sol's Pantry will open in Port Fairy, named after owners' son
Jonathan and Josephine Ayres open a bulk whole foods store in Port Fairy on October 2, named after their son Soli.
Jonathan and Josephine Ayres moved from Melbourne to Port Fairy in 2019 and started a family there. During COVID lockdowns, the idea for Sol's Pantry grew from isolation and love of fresh, local produce rooted in Greek family tradition.
The store lets customers scoop items like flour and flax seed from bulk bins into reusable containers. Customers pay by weight, avoiding plastic packaging.
Sol's Pantry will stock local producers whenever possible. The Ayres hope bulk stores catch on in regional towns.
More communities could celebrate local farmers and small businesses.
- October 2, 2026
- Opening date
- Port Fairy
- Location
- Soli
- Son's name
- Melbourne
- Previous location
Why it mattersIt shows how rural towns can attract city families seeking community and purpose, building local economies through small businesses that value sustainability.
AustraliaAdds a new retail option in Port Fairy and models how regional Victoria can support local producers and reduce plastic waste through bulk shopping.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 27 min ago
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