Abbey Engraving & Gifts, which is believed to be the longest operating small business in Westfield Miranda, will close its doors for the last time on March 31.
Proprietors Steven and Maria Zorbas will have heavy hearts, as will their customers, many of whom remember the beginnings of Abbey’s 40 years ago.
Mr Zorbas said they had not been forced out of business.
“Westfield was accommodating, but we decided not to renew our lease,” he said.
“The main reason is that, after such a long time, we want to have a good break.”
Mr Zorbas said they were overwhelmed by the messages of support after the Leader reported the store was having a massive clearance and may close.
“We even had people crying in the store,” he said.
Mr Zorbas said they were very grateful to their customers and valued the relationships that had developed.
“We have customers who come to us for engraving for their wedding or a christening, and now they come back for their grandchildren,” he said.
Mr Zorbas’s father opened the engraving business in 1976 on the ground level of Grace Bros in what was then called Miranda Fair.
Steven Zorbas joined the business in 1978 and he and his family have run it since then.
Mr Zorbas has engraved many thousands of gifts and cut even more keys over four decades.
The business expanded into giftware, specialising in sports memorabilia.
The Cronulla Sharks’ 2016 premiership win provided Abbey’s with a big sales boost.
Comments on the Leader;’s Facebook page included:
- Nooooo - that's my go to shop and quite often the only reason I go to Miranda
- Millers, Best & Less gone and now Abbey's going, adding paid parking and then with all the new shops (Chanel, Dior, etc) never busy or anyone in there.
- So so sad, I have gone to this shop so many times and always find the right gift when I have no idea what I'm looking for.
- It's going to be a very sad day to see Abbey’s go, I love the shop the staff are always friendly and I know I can get every thing done with out any fuss.