Before it had even officially opened, select members of the Bathurst community were already filing into The Cheesecake Shop on Thursday to check out the latest addition to the local business sector.
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Franchisee Imran Muhammad said he had already served seven customers prior to the store's 10am opening.
"It's been quite busy, there's certainly a lot interest among the local community," Imran said.
A cake and ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to christen the store, which was attended by Bathurst mayor Bobby Bourke and councillor Alex Christian.
Cr Bourke said it was an honour to welcome an Australian-produced brand to Bathurst.
"I open a lot of businesses around town, but a cheesecake shop certainly takes the cake," he said.
"This store front has been empty for some time, so it's great to see it occupied again and I hope the community gets behind it."
Cr Christian said The Cheesecake Shop's desire to open a store in Bathurst is indicative of the region's attractive business environment.
"I spoke to the owners and they said the property was leased sight unseen, which shows confidence there will be a market for the brand in Bathurst," Cr Christian said.
"It's great to see Bathurst attracting such franchises."