Southport BID feature by Andrew Brown Southport Visiter
The new owner of one of the longest established family businesses in Southport has been busy getting it all shipshape – and would love to see local people sail in.
Fiona Bailey has taken over Southport Aquarium Supplies, which was run by Paul and Dawn Molineux for over 50 years, opening in the early 1970s. The couple celebrated their golden wedding anniversary last year, having met when they were just 14 and 16 on a blind date.
Paul previously ran Southport Aquarium but opened his shop on Eastbank Street Bridge after the attraction closed.
The business was Paul’s passion. But it’s in safe hands now that Fiona has taken over at the helm, with many years of experience and expertise behind her too.
Fiona said: “Paul and Dawn ran Southport Aquarium Supplies for over 50 years.
“Paul put everything into this shop, he loved it. It was his Mum and Dad’s fruit and veg shop before he took over and converted it.
“When the chiropodists next door moved out, he added their premises, and expanded the business.
“Even in later years when people suggested to him to walk away, he wouldn’t do it.
“Southport Aquarium Supplies has been running as a local business for over 50 years, it must be one of the oldest businesses in Southport!
“I have been working here since 1982. We all worked at the business together.
“Paul tragically died in March. This shop was his life, it was what he lived for.
“He asked me if I would take it on, and continue to run it. I said yes.
“I spoke with his family and they have been very supportive.”
Southport Aquarium Supplies specialises in aquariums, reptile vivariums, and equipment.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide you to the perfect products for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned hobbyist or just starting out, they’re ready to assist with any questions or issues.
They have everything you need, from tanks to pond supplies. The shop stocks a wide range of aquariums, accessories, decorations, food, medicines and treatments, and frozen foods.
You can also discover a variety of wood and glass vivariums, heating and lighting, and frozen reptile foods plus lots for tortoise lovers, including tortoise tables, heating, and substrates.
When customers walk into the shop, they know exactly the levels of customer service they can enjoy.
Fiona said: “When people come into Southport Aquarium Supplies, they know they can tap into a huge wealth of knowledge and experience. I had such a great teacher!
“We are happy to help customers with any questions they have, or offer any advice they seek. We only ever encourage people to buy what they need.
“We offer full tank set-up, and sell all kinds of food and accessories.
“We used to sell fish in the shop, but we don’t any more. There are places nearby where people can get them.
“I love fish. I used to keep discus fish, puffer fish, terrapins, Mississippi map turtles, they are really cute.
“It is a really relaxing hobby,l really mindful. It is a great pastime, something you can do and really get involved with. It is a nice hobby to have.
“It is really good for your mental health and very mindful.
“Many of my customers say they really enjoy watching their fish swim around far more than watching the telly.
“We also offer vivariums, for reptiles, and have a small pond section.
“We are really keen to let people know we are still here, under new management, and about what we do.”
- Southport Aquarium Supplies is at: 169171 Eastbank Street (on Eastbank Street Bridge), Southport PR8 6TH. Phone them on: 07449505792 or visit: southportaquarium.godaddysites.com
- You can follow the Southport Aquarium page on Facebook.
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