Michael, Cathy and David Anstett (left to right) in front of the Goderich store that will stay open after Cathy decided to continue the business. (Photo by Bob Montgomery)Michael, Cathy and David Anstett (left to right) in front of the Goderich store that will stay open after Cathy decided to continue the business. (Photo by Bob Montgomery)
Midwestern

A Goderich business continues its tradition and stays with its roots

There's a changing of the guard at a long standing Goderich business, but it's also staying with its roots.

Anstett Jewellers on the Square in Goderich has a new owner.

Cathy Anstett says her brothers, Michael and David, are getting ready to retire, and she's continuing the family tradition.

“Thirty years ago I was a part of Anstett Jewellers in the Clinton and Seaforth and Exeter stores. And then I left to pursue my own adventures and opened up a flower shop, so it's really been quite an adventure to come back,” said Anstett.

Cathy says her brothers have done a great job, so she doesn't anticipate any major changes.

“But I certainly look forward to more online presence, so more social media and e-commerce. But this is a destination store, so we do have customers that have come many miles to visit the store and so we want to keep that alive and continue that as well.”

When looking at options, Michael Anstett says familiarity was a key part of the decision.

"A main concern is to keep the family name going and to also make sure that our good staff that has been with us a long time continue doing what they love," said Anstett.

David Anstett added while the on-line component plays a role in the business today, it was always nice to see the door open.

"People still like to come in and deal face to face, like to feel the product and try it on," he added. "Working with people and the customers, it's been a great career."

Anstett Jewellers has been in business for 71 years, and since 1984 in Goderich.

Cathy adds, they'll mark the change of ownership with a Legacy Sale starting next week.

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