Brenda and Joe Karac have had the difficult and emotional task of taking one of Noble Park’s most iconic businesses to larger premises in Clayton South this weekend after business grew rapidly since their takeover from owner of 30 years, Ian Morgan, last year.
By Shaun Inguanzo
NOBLE PARK residents will bid farewell this weekend to one of the town’s most iconic businesses when I and J Electrics packs up shop and moves to larger premises in Clayton South
The hot water system and electric stove repair shop has been a part of the community for 30 years and was formerly owned by dedicated businessman and community member, Ian Morgan.
Mr Morgan in his mid-60s was last year forced to sell the business due to a mysterious and debilitating health condition that led to him lose much of his speech.
New owners Joe and Brenda Karac have only owned the shop for 12 months but say they have connected with the community in that time.
The business has since rapidly expanded and its large machinery needs a place to be stored, Mr Karac said, prompting the move to larger premises.
But this weekend’s move will be an emotional one.
“We have had a few customers come in and say goodbye,” Mr Karac said.
“It is emotional, and we have only been here for two months, so I can only imagine what it was like for Ian last year.”
Mr Morgan’s son, Danny, said his father was shattered to have to sell the business, but ensured that whoever bought it would uphold its community values.
“We gave the old-fashioned country service in the city, and I think that’s the reputation the business had in the local area,” he said.
“If Mrs Jones was not too well and needed something done, we would go out and do calls at no cost just to help out.
“Dad was very focused at looking after the elderly in the area.”
Mr Karac said the decision to move was not taken lightly, and in honour of its heritage the shop would retain the same phone number.
“For the community it is very difficult,” he said.
“Some people have basically called this business an icon in the area because it has been here so long.
“It is a difficult decision, but we have been fortunate that most residents and customers have taken to us pretty well.”
I and J Electrics is moving to 11/266 Osborne Avenue, Clayton South.
