By CASEY NEILL
POLISH Rye Crust Bakery brings a taste of Poland to Dandenong.
Last Tuesday owners Hanna and Andrew Lipiszko took home the Central Dandenong Retailer of the Year award.
Dandenong Retail Traders’ Association (DRTA) invited customers to vote for their favourite retailer, with Polish Rye Crust Bakery, A1 Bakery, Angie’s Massage, Efka’s Café and Ritchies IGA Supermarket the finalists.
The Lipiszkos also made the final five last year and Andrew was thrilled the Foster Street store went one better this time.
“We try to provide all of our customers not just with good and fresh food, but also with an experience that will make them want to come back to Dandenong for more,” he said.
Mr Lipiszko and his wife Hanna received the award at the DRTA Christmas dinner, annual general meeting and business awards at the Dandenong Club on 12 November.
“We bring a part of Poland to Dandenong by showcasing traditional Polish hot dishes and breads that are so popular back home and always with a smile,” Mrs Lipiszko said.
DRTA president Glenys Cooper was returned to the position for another year, and said 2013 was not the year she and the committee had envisaged.
“But what a journey!” she said. “Top priority was to renew hope for all those retailers and in fact all businesses within central Dandenong that have struggled with the enormous changes we have undergone over the past eight years or so.
These included the Revitalising Central Dandenong project, Fountain Gate’s expansion and Myer closing, she said.
Ms Cooper said DRTA achieved a new logo and Facebook presence this year, held regular meetings with the council and networking nights and surveyed traders on car parking and other hot topics.
The group didn’t achieve its goal of getting customers back into central Dandenong.
“This is a long-term challenge. Steps have been put into place and our focus will continue,” she said.
Lights at Robinson Street, right turns into Lonsdale Street and freeing up customer car parking also remain on the to-do list.
“For many businesses motivation, income and customers have been at an all-time low,” Ms Cooper said.
“However, some are beginning to prosper as they overcome the struggles of the past.”
Guest speaker Gary Castricum urged traders to see out new ways to bring customers to their door, and particularly to get dollars from the thousands of workers coming into Dandenong every day.
Mr Castricum said the recent Dandenong Market redevelopment was essential to Dandenong’s future, and rejuvenating Dandenong Plaza would play an important role.
“They’re certainly making every possible effort to get the centre revitalised,” he said.
“The Plaza requires considerable investment in capital and marketing.”
Mr Castricum said improving public image was a major priority, as was adapting to changes and seeing opportunities.
Like the DRTA at facebook.com/dandenongretailtradersassociation.
