The move represents a significant shake-up in the battle for Bathurst’s grocery dollar, as Harris Farm was one of the key tenants when the City Centre opened its doors five years ago.

 And the partnership brings together two second generation Australian family retailers with a long history in the Central West.

Bernardi Group buying and marketing director Joe Bernardi confirmed the partnership with Harris Farm Markets.

“Our store has been well received by the Bathurst community, especially those consumers who are looking for an ultra convenient way to buy fresh food on a regular basis,” Mr Bernardi said.

“The move by Harris Farm Markets will now see an even greater emphasis on the fresh food offer within the store.

“Ultimately we will be providing our loyal customers with a far superior fruit and veg offer and Harris Farm Market’s loyal customers the opportunity for a one-stop shopping experience in more convenient location.

“We look forward to challenging our much larger national rivals with our combined force in offering the Bathurst consumer a true alternative to grocery shopping in the Bathurst market.’’

Harris Farm Markets will operate a concession within the existing Bernardi’s Marketplace Supa IGA Plus Liquor store, selling their fruit and vegetables and selected range of specialty grocery lines.

Harris Farm is currently working through transfer and placement options with their existing store staff, and several will continue working in the new concession.

Co-CEO Tristan Harris said the partnership was an extension of a long-term wholesale supply arrangement with the Bernardi Group.

“The Harris family and Bernardi family have been trading fruit and veg with each other for decades,” Mr Harris said.

“As a 100 per cent family-owned and operated business, we’re now very excited to further develop our partnership with another leading Australian family-owned business who share our vision of providing the Central West with a truly unique – and independent – supermarket option.

“We’re both committed to offering the Bathurst community a compelling shopping experience driven by first class customer service and, of course, great products at fair prices.

“We believe that this new store concept will heighten the supermarket competition in the Central West and ultimately lead to a better deal for locals.”

Harris Farm will join Bernardi’s Supa IGA and Discount Dave’s at the Rankin Street site, which boasts a floor area of 2700 square metres and undercover street-level parking for 95 cars.

Refurbishment has begun within Supa IGA and Harris Farm is due to open before the end of the financial year.

.