10 years of cooking up kitchen solutions at Aspenz

Every great dish begins with the right cooking tools.

For the past decade, Aspenz has been filling Margaret River’s kitchens with quality, inspiration and delicious stories.

This month, the specialty kitchenware store celebrates a milestone that grew from one customer’s passion for quality cookware.

“I was a regular customer before taking over Aspenz,” owner James Schlipalius shared.

“I was managing Retravision when the store first opened in 2004. I became a repeat shopping offender because I loved the store’s quality offerings.

“It’s the kind of story where I enjoyed the shop so much that I bought the business!”

The 2015 decision came at a crossroads.

“My wife, Meredith, basically said, ‘Well, you either buy the business or find another job,'” James laughed.

“So, effectively, we bought ourselves a job. But it has become so much more than that!”

The couple retained the beloved Aspenz name – derived from the original owner Liz’s family initials – but refined its focus.

Throughout its 21-year history, the store has transformed from a general kitchenware and gift shop to a specialised culinary destination.

“We established a dedicated kitchenware store.

“With all the amazing produce, foodies, restaurants, and chefs in town, Margaret River required a specialty store offering both quality products and expert advice.”

That decision influences daily conversations in the store.

“We talk about cooking all day long! We chat about the dishes they’re preparing and the products they need to make it happen.

“My customers often inspire my own cooking adventures; they sound so delicious that I think, I need to try that too!

“And the best part is that they often come in afterwards to tell us how it all went; some even show us pictures. It’s a pretty special connection.”

James’s extensive knowledge leads many to assume he has a chef’s background, but his expertise comes from years of hands-on experience and customer interactions.

“Everything I’ve learned has come from on-the-job experience.

“Our customers teach us so much – from French cooking terms to specialty equipment I’ve never heard of. Someone once asked for a raclette cheese melter, and I had to Google it! Now we stock and sell them regularly.”

Quality and design drive every decision regarding what makes it onto the shelves.

“If a customer encounters an issue with a product, we investigate whether it is a user error or a quality problem. We stand behind our products and expect our suppliers to do the same.”

Despite rising costs, the store strives to keep prices reasonable while upholding its high standards.

The store’s reputation for quality has attracted both home cooks and professionals.

“It feels great when local chefs come seeking specific plates or pans. Many of these restaurants receive awards, and knowing our equipment played a small part in that success is really rewarding.”

While the past decade has been a joyful ride, Aspenz, like many businesses, has faced significant challenges, particularly during COVID-19.

James’s creative solution became the talk of the town: “I couldn’t have people browsing inside, so I offered my version of ‘window shopping. ‘”

“I literally stood at the window, taking orders and running around the shop to collect items. We had queues of people waiting, as everyone was stuck at home cooking. I got quite fit from sprinting back and forth all day!”

The experience reinforced the importance of community connection.

“We’re a bit old-fashioned in that we like to provide quality service and information. Our regulars often pop in just for a chat, and it’s not always about cooking – we’re part of the community.”

Looking ahead, Aspenz is launching its website while preserving its personal touch.

“The online offering will help customers with easy ordering, but we’re a person-to-person local business at heart. We want to keep building on our reputation as Margaret River’s go-to for specialty kitchenware.”

Reflecting on ten years, James expressed gratitude to both the community and his family.

“The local support, especially during COVID, has been incredible. We really want to keep growing and expanding. That’s how we give back – by offering people more choices so they can feel confident about shopping locally.”

“My wife, Meri, and her family have been pillars of support. I am so grateful to them, and I couldn’t have done it without them and our incredible community. I look forward to another 10 years of helping our town cook up a storm!”

For those who want to upgrade their well-loved pans or try something new, April at Aspenz brings Easter specials and anniversary celebrations.

James and his knowledgeable team are ready to help with their trademark warm smiles, positivity, great conversation, and genuine service.