Winkle Shopfitters was established on the 10th of October 1978, by Desmond Kelly and his friend John Whylie. Des and John initially started the business in Des’s home garage, but they quickly outgrew the space and moved into a factory in Marion, South Australia. In 1988 John decided to head back to his homeland of England; and Des and a new partner Andrew Westley; continued on with Winkle Shopfitters. Andrew brought his skills as a business manager to the company; while Des focused on the manufacturing and installation of shopfits. In 1992 Andrew retired due to ill health, and Des and his wife Jenny became the sole Directors of Winkle Shopfitters Pty Ltd.
Over the years Winkle Shopfitters has outgrown several factories; and expanded to become a national shopfitting company.
In 2005 Des and Jenny built a purpose designed factory and head office for Winkle Shopfitters, and rebranded the company to Winkle Group to reflect the size and capabilities of the business.
Des and Jenny’s three children – Josh, Hamish and Harmony have all come on board to work within the business in various roles. In 2014 Josh, Hamish and Harmony were appointed Directors of the Winkle Group and now manage the business.
The Kelly Family have always prided themselves on being honest and hardworking; and have endeavored to build a company that has a great reputation within the shopfitting industry, and amongst retailers.
The Winkle Group is a proud second generation Australian business.
