Drop in foot traffic leaves Subiaco yoghurt business with sour taste

Menchie’s Frozen Yoghurt has followed in the footsteps of Subiaco’s Purl Bar and Jesters, claiming dismal sales from a lack of foot traffic.

The business will soon become one of up to nine vacant buildings along Rokeby Road.

Menchie’s owner Annalisa Hutchinson started the business two years ago this month with hopes of franchising.

MORE: Subiaco nabs planning excellence gong

Mrs Hutchinson said those plans were soon dashed by low sales from issues with parking, low foot traffic, high wages and road works along Rokeby Road.

“I’ve spoken to a lot of businesses along Rokeby Road and they are all struggling to make ends meet,” she said.

“People don’t want to come to Subiaco unless they have to. It is not an easy place to visit.

“It’s really sad we have to close down. We are a husband and wife team and we have tried everything to make it work.”

She said paying weekend penalty rates had also killed the business.

“Why do people need to get paid double time for working a Sunday when everywhere else Sunday is a normal trading day?” she said.

A review into penalty rates is currently underway, with the Fair Work Commission expected to release its report next month.

The Productivity Commission has recommended that as part of the review Sunday rates in certain industries be cut to match Saturday rates.

Subiaco chief executive Don Burnett said the City continued to work to address issues in the town centre with the Subiaco Activity Centre Plan.

“It’s always disappointing when businesses close,” he said.

“We are currently working on a number of strategies to increase visitation to Subiaco and the town centre, including a town centre destination marketing strategy and economic development strategy.

“The City is working hard to address issues confronting businesses. However, landlords need to take some responsibility in assisting their tenants in these difficult times.”