Balancing act as Brown’s Mensland enters new era

Peter managed the menswear store in the central Pakington St site, previously a car lot, in 1982 and he was joined by brother Jim until only a few years ago when Jim’s focus shifted to other priorities.

That decision triggered the entry of Cameron who had lived in the US for six years, studying and pursing a sporting career in baseball before working in digital advertising.

At one stage Brown’s also operated out of the Market Square and Corio shopping centres but Peter said they decided to reduce overheads, concentrate on one store and develop the corporate uniform business.

“When Jim retired I knew there was enough scope in the business for somebody else to be involved,” Peter said.

“We have great staff, but it does need somebody with new ideas and enthusiasm.”

For Peter, communication and defining roles is one of the keys in loosening the reins to allow Cameron his space in the business.

“I think Cam and I work together well when it comes to knowing whose responsibility is what,” he said.

Retailing has its challenges but Cameron is excited by the challenge and proud to be continuing the family’s legacy.

“To contribute to a project that my grandfather started when it was nothing more than an idea and get an opportunity to craft that gives me great deal of satisfaction,” he said.

He said working in the industry which was being continually consolidating was scary at times.

“As long as we are able to stick to what we do best and create relationships with our customers, there is still a place for that,” he said.

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