Ipswich’s oldest business, CJ Vogler & Son, established in 1877, has a new lease on life after a recent facelift to its storefront.
The bright green shopfront upgrade came about after Ipswich City Council committed $137,000 to a pilot Façade Improvement Program aimed at sharpening up shopfronts in Ipswich Central.
The dollar-for-dollar matched funding program ensured shopfront owners could revamp their business storefronts, with up to a total of $15,000 per recipient from council matched by their own contribution.
CJ Vogler & Son is one of 12 applicants selected to participate in the pilot program and is also the first business to give their storefront a fresh coat of paint and new signage.
Deputy Mayor Marnie Doyle said the refreshed shopfront would provide a welcomed boost to the business and make the area more enjoyable for locals.
“The appearance of the city’s businesses and its overall streetscapes has an impact on people’s perception of an area and how often they visit,” Cr Doyle said.
“Not only does this revamped shopfront look amazing, it will also draw new customers and shoppers to Ipswich Central which will be welcomed by local businesses.
“We want people from Ipswich and beyond to visit town and see how wonderful Ipswich Central looks.
“These updated shopfronts will enhance the area and make for a better street experience.”
Councillor Andrew Fechner said it was fantastic to see the first shopfront revitalised and that he looks forward to further upgraded shopfronts in the coming weeks and months.
“It’s wonderful to see the shopfronts coming together so quickly,” Cr Fechner said.
“The Pilot Façade Improvement Program is a great initiative which has been strongly supported by local businesses and will improve the overall look of our CBD.”
Manager of CJ & Vogler Son LeighAnne Townsley said they had been thinking about upgrading their façade for a while but had been holding off due to the pandemic which has been a difficult time for local businesses.
“Council’s Pilot Façade Improvement Program came through and it was perfect timing,” LeighAnne said.
“It’s given us the opportunity to spruce up the front.
“We’ve had a lot of people commenting on our face lift, they say it looks fresher and more inviting.
“We are hopeful that the new façade is standing out more and making people look at our business, drawing them in… and making them want to check out the wonderful things we have to offer.”
