Despite an overwhelming response to the opening of Dan Murphy’s liquor outlet in Launceston, plans for a Hobart outlet will be a case of later rather than sooner.
General Manager of the huge Dan Murphy’s liquor operation, Campbell Stott, is keen to consolidate the inaugural store before considering a second outlet.
“We have brought an exciting business model to Launceston and we want to bed it down before considering another store in Tasmania. We may think about it in the next couple of years but finding 1000sq metre sites in appropriate areas takes time,” Mr Stott said.
Mr Stott said the opening weekend was very exciting and trading since had been very strong.
“A good example of volumes of people visiting the site has been the signed-up members to our free membership club which provides additional discounts within the stores and through the on-line business and delivery to clients.
“In the first 10 days of trading, 3000 Tasmanians signed up and the membership rate continues. It became obvious when talking to clients over the opening weekend, that they were astounded by the range of product particularly the wines, spirits and craft beers.
“I was pleasantly surprised by the volume and quality of Tasmanian craft beers, whisky and wines which have been very popular with clients as well as the wider range of products from Australia and overseas. Craft beers sales have increased from 5 percent two years ago to 12 percent today and rising.”
Mr Stott, is based in Dan Murphy’s Melbourne headquarters and spends much of his time visiting and working with the 205 outlets around Australia. His management priorities are culture, systems and employing top talent.
Dan Murphy’s Launceston outlet on the corner of Bathurst and York Streets operates seven days a week and employs 22 Tasmanians.
Tasmanian Business Reporter 
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