Manager Ray Hermans said it was the loyalty of the Wimmera people that enabled the family to run a small business for so long. 

“In this day and age, people are well-educated on what is available to them within the community, across the country and internationally. It is has now become a choice to shop locally,” he said. 

“The core of our business has always been the Wimmera. Our heart is local and it hasn’t wavered and we are fortunate the community has supported us over 50 years.”    

Mr Hermans said he followed his father Dick’s advice during his 33 years running the family business. 

“He said to me that if there was one thing that I needed to remember, if somebody goes to the effort of walking off the footpath and into your shop then you should feel honoured,” he said. 

“I have felt honoured for the past 33 years.” 

Store owner Ann Hermans said the business started in 1967 and was her husband’s passion. 

“We made our home here in Horsham and Dick wanted to open his own small retail business. He loved interacting with people,” she said.

Hermans Interiors has changed during its 50 years, moving to four different locations in Horsham before settling at 48 Firebrace Street. 

It initially started as interior decorating and designing business with some giftware, but now focuses on providing kitchen and tableware products that are more practical.

​“Working with family offers up its challenges, but there’s a connection you have that makes business more personal,” Mr Hermans said. 

“And it’s not just the interaction between family, but also with the staff. Our staff have been with us for many years and have been loyal.”

Mr Hermans said there were opportunities to expand, but remaining local has allowed the business to stay in touch with the community.

“The thing I enjoy more than anything else is talking to the customers,” he said.