Artist s impression of the new look - Betta Home Living. Locals will soon see the makeover of the old Retravision shop which has operated on the site for the last 22 years.
The Retravision shop in the early nineties.
The Cooma Retravision store is getting a makeover next week, and while the faces and friendly service will stay the same, the business, which has been operated by the Anthony family for more than 50 years, is joining the Betta Home Living franchise.
The Cooma store manager George Anthony said he is looking forward to the change and being part of the largest independent buying group in Australia.
"Betta Home Living has more than 200 stores Australia-wide," Mr Anthony said.
"We will have access to more brands and better pricing, which will benefit our customers," Mr Anthony said.
Mr Anthony said his business had been part of Retravision for about 22 years, but felt the need to change to a more progressive organisation.
The Sharp Street store will get a facelift over the next week, with a new bright yellow and blue colour scheme, new uniforms and a brand new catalogue full of specials, which is out at the moment.
The family-run business started by Andrew Anthony when he bought the International Club over 50 years ago, has evolved into several different businesses over the years.
The International Club became the Cooma Bargain Centre, then the Discount King and from 1991 it became Retravision Cooma.
Andrew Anthony came to Cooma in 1956 to start work on the Snowy Scheme, before returning to Cyprus, where he married his wife Mary.
The couple returned to Cooma in 1959 to live, where they had their five children Pam, Kay, Tony, George and Chris, who have all worked in the shop at some time over the years.
Kay, Tony and George have remained in the business.
George Anthony said apart from the family involvement in the store, there are also loyal, long-term employees, Chris, Ryan, Colin, Julie, Rob and Jen.
"Our experienced staff have excellent product knowledge and customer service," he said.
"Local shoppers don't need to travel further than Cooma to find the right product at right price not - for - profit.
Mr Anthony said his family-run business supports local the organisations.
"The business is a major sponsor of local football teams, both rugby union and rugby league, as well the Salvation Army, St Vincent de Paul's, MCCR (Monaro Council for Cancer Research), Cooma Hospital and a number of other community groups."
Brothers, George and Tony Anthony said they appreciate their loyal customers, which allows the business to give back to the community.
