REVEALED OUR NEW MYER’S SECRETS

MYER Hobart is back and fully operational as thousands of customers are expected to go through its doors this weekend as they welcome back their favourite department store.

More than 12,500sq m of store space and new brands signal a new beginning for the retail giant after enduring a fire in 2007 and a flood in 2016.

Acting Premier Jeremy Rockliff and Hobart Lord Mayor Ron Christie were upstaged by Peppa Pig and model Rachael Finch but were blown away by the redevelopment as they toured the new-look store at yesterday’s official opening.

“This is fantastic for Hobart and Tasmania and signals retail confidence in our community,” Mr Rockliff said.

“It’s been a long time coming.”

It was a far cry from Mr Rockliff’s memories in 2007.

“I remember back in 2007 it was before question time and a lot of members of parliament assembled not far from the fire and were watching the place burn down effectively,’’ he said.

“That was a sorry and sad sight. It’s a testament to all your staff and the commitment you have to the local retail environment and the customers in the community.”

Alderman Christie praised store manager Peter Monachetti for his steadfast dedication to rebuilding the store.

“Ten and half years ago the soul of our city was ripped apart,” he said.

“One thing I must say is thank you to the traders in Murray and Liverpool streets for their perseverance and understanding.”

Myer executive chairman Garry Hounsell said the store showed Myer’s commitment to Hobart and Tasmania.

“I’m very confident sales are going to be very strong,” he said.

Although the official launch was yesterday, the revamp has been open to shoppers since Wednesday.