Today we’d like to introduce you to Dean Lassiter.
Hi Dean , can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Aussie Island Surf Shop has been proudly servicing Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach and the surrounding areas since 1990. We pride ourselves on our excellent customer service, and strive to do anything we can to help our customers. No matter who you are or what your experience level, you can be sure to be feel at home and be treated like family in our relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
Our 3000 square foot retail store is located off of New Centre Road by Target in Wilmington. We carry a variety of products from mens and women’s clothing and shoes, to surfboards, skateboards and snowboard gear. We also have a great selection of high quality watches, sunglasses and snow goggles during the winter months.
I live in Wilmington with my wife and have 3 children and has always loved board sports. I have been in the retail industry for over 36 years and as an owner of Aussie Island for most of my adult life. I love getting to connect with customers over shared passions and interests and help them with whatever they need!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The original Aussie Island location was in Landfall shopping center prior to the development of the Mayfaire shopping center. Wilmington looked tremendously different back then, with Military Cutoff Road being just two lanes. I recall the booming movie industry in Wilmington taking off around that time, with actors swinging by the store in the initial days of the opening. Deciding to move from Landfall to Dunlea court was a big decision in 2006 and ended up being for the best.
Since then, there has also been a store on Wrightsville Beach. Closing the Wrightsville Beach store was also one of the hardest. – and now we are located in a singular 3,000 square foot location off New Centre Road in Wilmington, by Target.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I have seen customers grow up over the years, from seeing kids come in the store back in the early 1990’s, to seeing those same kids grow up – now bringing kids of their own into the shop. I love seeing customers when they are out surfing, around town, and of course, when they drop by the shop – and truly feeling like we have built a personal relationship with everyone we have had the chance to meet.
It goes beyond just customers as well. Over the decades, we have built lasting relationships with surf reps, board shapers, and other vendors – a part of their journey we take great pride in.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Being with family, friends and kids.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://aussieisland.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aussieisland
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/Aussieisland
