Shock News: Mosman greengrocer Johnnie’s Fruit Shop to close after six decades on Avenue Rd.

By ANNA USHER

Johnnies Fruit Shop – a cherished local institution since 1962 – will close its doors on Monday, May 13.

The news, confirmed by Mosman Collective, has saddened many loyal customers who have relied on Johnnies for fresh produce and friendly service for more than six decades. Owner Som Banerjee, who took on the business last September, said rising costs had made it “impossible” to keep the iconic Avenue Rd store open.

The sudden closure was decided last weekend.

“It is heartbreaking for me to close the shop, but we have been left with no option,” he said on Monday, “I feel thoroughly defeated.”

Mr Banerjee, whose current lease is almost $10,000 a month, said that cost of living pressures, the arrival of Woolworths Metro on Military Rd, and a rent increase had taken him to a “breaking point.”

Over the past five years, the landmark store has had three owners, each trying – and failing to replicate the success of Jimmy and Toula Koustoubardis, who retired in 2019.

When Mr Banerjee opened in the second half of 2023, he promised to return the legacy business to its former glory, even retaining long-standing employees Louie and Roy to ensure all produce was “of the highest quality”.

“Everyone in Mosman knows Louie and Roy, and they are such a big part of the community,” Mr Banerjee said, “both are very sad to lose their jobs but understand the financial position we are in.”

Mr Banerjee said a combination of rent, taxes, wages and business expenses – along with a drop in foot traffic – all contributed to his shock move.

“Over the past few months, there has been less patronage, and transaction amounts have also declined,” he said.

“Last year, the average spend (per customer) was about $25-$30. Now it is between $12-$15, sometimes even less.”

Commercial Real Estate agent Patrick Cowie, who looks after 58a Avenue Rd, told Mosman Collective he was “devastated” for Mr Banerjee “and the local community”.

“I’m genuinely sad that the tenant can’t continue with the business due to rising costs. These are tough days for many small local business owners,” Mr Cowie said.

“The good news is that the owner of the shop is a long-time local resident who wants to see the site remain as a fruit and vegetable offering.

“Johnnies is recognised Sydney-wide as an original 1960s greengrocer, and she is determined to keep it that way.”

Mr Cowie said there have already been several enquiries about a new leasehold, and he is “confident” a new tenant will fill the vacancy soon.

“Regardless, it is unfortunate to see a business like this have to go,” he said.