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THE first shopping mall of its type in the MIA, on Wednesday Griffin Plaza marks a significant milestone.
For 20 years the loved facility has been servicing the community and is renowned for its convenience and variety.
The plaza was built on the old cannery site at the intersection of Crossing and Yambil streets and the opening at 10am on March 15, 1997 was one of the biggest retail events ever seen in the city at that time.
Original tenant Glen Capello couldn’t believe the turnout.
“Opening day was incredible,” Glen said. “I hadn’t seen so many people before
“It opened on a Sunday. That was way different.
“When they opened the doors at 10, you couldn’t see the other side of the plaza.”
This advertising feature is sponsored by the following businesses:
- Knight Frank
- Bakers Delight
- Seeds of Wellness
- Griffin Plaza News
- Bush Chemist
- K&N Virago Electrical
- Weston & Weston
- Griffith Recycling
- JDT Constructions
An official opening had been held the night before for special guests, dignitaries and tenants.
On the Sunday there was a carnival atmosphere with six barbecues cooking breakfast, Sydney’s official town crier Graham Keating, a parade of characters from Australia’s Wonderland and competition draws all before the doors opened.
The centre’s original theme was “We’re one big family at the plaza” and from the outset was focused on being “city proud”.
Anchored by Coles and Liquorland, there are 22 specialty shops, ranging from fashion outlets for all ages, eateries and a newsagent, to national retailers.
Knight Frank last year took on the management of the plaza.
“Griffin Plaza has served the Griffith community for 20 years,” a spokesperson said. “During this time there have been many changes and some things have stood the test of time.
“We would like to congratulate retail operators Liz Purtell (Autograph), Glen Capello (Lenard’s), Stephen and Emily Lowe (Mama Chopsticks) and Dave Murray (Donut King) who have traded in the centre since its opening, and Baker’s Delight, which celebrated 15 years at the centre last week.
“Our aim is to strengthen the relationships between the shopping centre and the local community, and help improve the well-being and prosperity of the Griffith community by managing a sustainable shopping centre.”
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