Local general store works to keep lights on

A SURF Coast business owner is on the hunt for somebody to take over his lease instead of closing the shop doors.

Jan Juc General Store owner Dujin (Jin) Zheng originally planned to close the doors to his shop, but after an outpour of support from the community has decided to help look for a new tenant.

After running the store for almost nine years, Jin issued a letter community announcing its closure. Just over a week later, he wrote a second letter in search of someone to take over.

“I knew people would be disappointed and sad about it when they heard the shop would be gone, but it’s been really touching,” he said.

“I did feel how much the people love the shop and love the way I run the shop, so I thought maybe we can find someone willing to make a hard-working commitment in the business.”

The second letter highlights the need for somebody with a community minded approach to take over the store, likening running the shop to raising a child, it needs patience, sweat and love.

While Jin has loved running the shop, he isn’t able to make the ongoing commitment to keep the doors open, and is stepping back to focus on his family.

“This shop, this kind of business is suited for a young couple who are willing to make long-hours and a hardworking commitment in the business,” he said.

“On top of that I always wanted to do something else except for the general store stuff, I couldn’t have such commitment in the business, so if people want to add a bakery or something else on top of this, there’s lots of space.”

Over the course of his time at the general store, Jin has enjoyed being part of the community and all the people he’s met along the way.

If a new owner cannot be found, the store will close on July 31.