The heart of the Wanniassa shopping precinct is set to lose a beloved fixture as The Markets Wanniassa announces it will close its doors permanently in February 2026. Owner Fiona Lester made the difficult decision after almost a decade of running the community-focused store, which became a hub for local artisans and shoppers seeking unique, Australian-made products.
A Decade of Community and Craft
What began as a pop-up shop in December 2016 quickly evolved into a permanent brick-and-mortar establishment by March 2017. For nearly ten years, Fiona Lester has curated a vibrant collection of wares from hundreds of local and Australian makers, offering everything from handmade clothing and jewellery to crafting supplies.
The store became particularly known for its yarn selection and the friendly conversations that accompanied purchases. "The best part of the shop was the community, 100 per cent," Fiona shared. "All of the connections, all of the people, I will really miss that. I think that's the hardest thing I'll have to get used to."
Mounting Pressures Force Closure
Despite its popularity, several external challenges made continuing the business unsustainable. Fiona cited three primary factors: an inability to negotiate reasonable rent with the landlord, rampant shoplifting, and the significant drop in customers' disposable income due to cost-of-living pressures.
Shoplifting has become particularly brazen. Fiona recounted a recent incident where a man openly stole an item in full view of neighbouring Coles staff, who then alerted her. "It's so bad," she said.
Furthermore, she has observed a direct correlation between interest rate changes and customer spending. "I notice a massive difference... As soon as they go down, we are busy within the hour. And when there's not a decrease... it's almost like people seize up," she explained, expressing empathy for her customers' financial strain.
A Family Farewell and Future Plans
The Markets Wanniassa has been a true family enterprise. Fiona and her husband James, affectionately nicknamed 'Mr and Mrs Market', started the business together. Their three youngest children—Olivia (20), Matilda (17), and Eddie (15)—grew up helping in the store and were known as the 'Mini-Markets'. Olivia now serves as the store manager.
The final day of trade will be February 15, 2026. While closing the physical store is a definitive step, Fiona hasn't ruled out continuing her support for homemade products in a new format. "We're just working out what it's going to look like," she hinted.
Above all, Fiona feels profound gratitude. "A huge thank you to our community for supporting us and helping make our business what it is and what it has been for nine years," she said, marking the end of an era for Wanniassa shoppers and makers alike.
