THE official opening of Redlands Produce in Boundary Road, Thornlands, is the culmination of years of planning for owners Kristian and Peter Foxover.
They have been involved with the pet store Exotiques and Birds of Paradise at Victoria Point for the past 10 years and were keen to expand their business.
The store at Victoria Point Shopping Centre has been run as a family business focusing mainly on dogs, cats, birds and fish, but over the past few years they have realised the need to move into a greater range of produce.
The success of the pet store has led to the opening of Redlands Produce, which caters for farm livestock, with a big emphasis on horses as well as domestic pets. Redlands Produce will operate in conjunction with the Exotiques and Birds of Paradise pet shop.
Peter and Kristian said the pet store would continue to focus on domestic pets, while the produce store would offer an expanded range with an emphasis on farm animals and serious horse owners such as breeders and exhibitors.
"We will carry a good range of produce for horses, cattle and the growing market for chickens, as well as meeting the demand for pets," they said.
The 450sq m Boundary Road premises will be open seven days a week and manned by five staff members.
Sonya Taylor has joined the team. She has years of experience in the produce area, as well as being recognised for her expertise in horse care and feeding.
Julianne Houweling is another member with extensive knowledge of poultry, having managed a chicken farm for the past 10 years. Julianne also has spent time on the land looking after cattle, sheep and horses.
Plenty of bitumen sealed off-street parking will be available.
Space is also available at the site for further expansion of the business in the future.