Our Story
In 1985, after a series of diverse occupations ranging from shearer to tour guide, a young and keen Ned Wright decided to try his hand at being a retailer. With the help of some good people and a supportive wife he opened a discount store in tiny premises in Mount Barker, South Australia, and so pioneered a new concept in South Australian shopping.
After only a few months of trade it became apparent that a much bigger store was required and, in July 1986, Ned’s moved to Gawler Street, Mount Barker. Here, the business began to really take off. Shoppers responded to the opportunity to purchase interesting and useful items at low prices, and to engage in the pleasurable activity of treasure hunting. This store flourished for the next 14 years before moving to the Mount Barker Central Shopping Centre where it continues the Ned’s experience!
The Murray Bridge store opened in 1990 and was warmly received by town and rural residents alike. In 2005, this store moved to the iconic Bell’s building in the main street, opposite the Town Hall, where it is now a landmark in its own right.
In 1995 a site was found in scenic Victor Harbor, a popular seaside town 80 kilometres to the south of Adelaide. This fast-growing town became the perfect location for Ned’s and the store has been redeveloped three times since opening to accommodate the growth in activity.
Since 2000, Ned’s stores have opened at Welland Plaza (2002); Murray Street, Gawler (2003); Elizabeth Shopping Centre (2004); and Southgate Plaza, Morphett Vale (2005). Our latest store in Mount Gambier opened on 30th June 2008.
Enduring good contacts and supply channels underpin the Ned’s shopping experience. Ned’s first seven stores underwent a transformation in 2007-8. Upgraded fittings and computerised stock control have given better results for all Ned’s customers. Store number eight, Mount Gambier, benefits from the wisdom, technological advances and skill in merchandising gained from experience in retailing since 1985.
Ned’s continues to be a strong South Australian retail company with a successful internal business culture and a major focus on customer service and satisfaction.
