By Tania Phillps
Starting the business in August 2008 “on the smell of an oily rag”, Allison Alderman (Webster) has built Workin’ Wear Warwick up into a profitable business and one she obviously loves.
However ill health means she has to sell the business – she’s hoping to sell to a local if she can – someone who can carry on the work she’s done.
“It’s definitely not closing down, the business is up for sale,” she explained.
“It has been a big part of my life – 13 years this month.
“Someone who has the energy and doesn’t have the health problems I do would be absolutely having a field day. For me I feel like I’m almost holding it back, I struggle to keep up.
“There are so many things I’d like to do if I could but physically I just can’t.”
Workin’ Wear Warwick is much more than just workwear, boots and safety supplies.
It is also casual gear, jeans, polos, hats, and so much more.
“We’ve got so much stuff for both men and women,” she explained.
“There is such a diverse mix of things here – I’m so regularly asked by people from over the border or from Sunshine Coast or Brisbane – have you got another shop or can you set up another store. No. I haven’t got a chainstore happening – mind you it is something that could be done.”
Allison prides herself in having a wide range of sizes in boots and clothing in the store.
“If they make a size, I try to have it. I don’t limit my sizing because we all come in different shapes and sizes, so if they make a size I will try to stock it.”
The store is a bit of an institution in Warwick, located in Palmerin Street up from the Post Office – next to Danny Lyons Sports.
“I like to sell really good gear but at really good prices – a lot of people assume a little business is expensive so when people come in here the first time – they’re very shocked by the good prices,” the passionate businesswoman said.
It’s clear by the way Allison talks about the shop that she wouldn’t be selling her business if she didn’t have to.
“For me I would love to sell it to someone local – that would be my ultimate – to keep it within the local community but I can’t wait forever. If I have to advertise further afield I will,” she said.
“A few years ago the Mongrel Boots rep let me know I was in the top three sellers for Mongrel boots in Queensland. For a little town and a little shop that’s pretty good.
“There is no way I’d be looking to sell this business if it wasn’t for my health – I set this up with full intentions of it taking me through to retirement.”
Despite her health problems, Allison is in a good place in her life – having married her soulmate last year – and she has no intention of leaving her hometown once she sells so would be on-hand with advice for any prospective buyers.
“Warwick is an awesome little town and this is a fabulous little business with lots of wonderful regular customers,” she said.
“So if you or someone you know would like to take it on give me a call.”
Find Workin’ Wear Warwick at 155 Palmerin st, or phone them on (07) 4661 8864.
