End of an era: Authentic Trademarks’ doors close

Doors close and others open.

On Saturday, the doors of David Pierce’s Authentic Trademarks store in Narrabri closed, but in the future will re-open with another local business moving into the prime retail space.

And for David Pierce, a new door opened earlier this year when he decided to take a change of direction, after more than 20 years in business, with a role at Narrabri High School.

Saturday saw the last day of trading at Authentic Trademarks.

“The doors are shut, end of an era, I packed my bags,” said David.

“I have mixed emotions,” he admitted.

“But I am proud of what I have achieved and what I feel I have brought to the town and to young people.

“I feel very satisfied with my time at Authentic Trademarks.”

“However, without my team behind me I would never been able to achieve it,” David said.

“That support is one thing I will always value.”

The final days at Authentic Trademarks were hectic.

“Everything had to go, and everything went,” said David.

Customers and friends thronged the store and apart from buying from the racks of fashions, were keen to take home some Authentic Trademarks memorabilia.

“It was very gratifying that people wanted to have something from the store to keep a connection,” said David.

“Everything went to good homes. Most of my collectables and memorabilia went to people who really appreciated them.”

The Zephyr sedan mounted high on the wall which was such a feature of Authentic Trademarks, and which David believes the only really original decor item from day one at the store, has found a new home.

“It was bought by a customer who first came to the old shop when he was a kid.

“He used to love the car, he’s a real car enthusiast, and was very happy to have the Zephyr more than 20 years later.”

Authentic Trademarks has been an iconic part of the Narrabri business scene and a destination for generations of Narrabri’s young – and older – residents who always found not only the latest fashions and styles, but also a welcoming greeting from David and his team.

Many young people have learned the basics, and honed their skills, in retail and customer service while employed at Authentic Trademarks over the past two decades.

“I counted up the number of young people who have worked here – about 35,” said David. “They have all gone on to do interesting things, travelled Australia and the world.

“I keep in touch with virtually all of them, and they keep me updated with what they are doing.

“I have always encouraged them to explore opportunities.

“‘Never miss an opportunity’ I have urged them.

“Someone gave me that advice when I worked for Levis and I have always passed that on to all my staff.”