Downes store opened in Queen Street on Thursday, November 1, 1951, when the company took over the Pat Solomons Progressive Store. In 1951 the store was one of four operated by the company and offered only hardware, clothing and software merchandise. The company's managing director was Rex Downes. His faith and foresight in the future of Campbelltown first brought the company to the city.
Rex Downes bought up all available land in the vicinity of the store. He set out also a policy of keeping Downes store "one step in front" of the growth pattern and at times the economic situation. This allowed Downes to present the best possible service "at city prices" to the residents of what was then the country town of Campbelltown.
Downes sold everything from clothes to lawnmowers to homewares. There was also a large menswear department. It had three levels with the top level being the office. Electrical was on the bottom level. The store was located where Spotlight is today.
In 1984 two stages of a $2.5 million redevelopment of Downes were completed. The store became Downes City Plaza. It included Franklin's Supermarket, butcher, ice-creamery and restaurant. The competition from Campbelltown Mall and Macarthur Square eventually led to Downes demise.
Written by Andrew Allen
Sources:
Campbelltown District Star
18 November, 1976 p13
Macarthur Advertiser
23 October, 1984
Campbelltown District Star
18 November, 1976 p13
Macarthur Advertiser
23 October, 1984
I left school in 1980 and started work as a Storeman at Downes Campbelltown. It was a great first job and I remember my co workers and Rex Downes fondly.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing Peter. Everyone I meet speaks fondly of the store.
ReplyDeleteYes I worked in the office...loved it and my boyfriend worked in the paint Dept 1972!....found memories and good people
ReplyDeleteCherryl casier......Remember working in the office ... collecting the money every afternoon from each register..1972!
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