Combing through a bunch of keys, Brain Adams (83) opens the doors of Kleinfontein Cycles & Appliance Spares Centre, on Prince’s Avenue, as he has done for 60 years.

The store is currently sparsely stocked, as the Benonian and his wife, Joan (77), prepare to usher in a new chapter of their 58-year-long marriage, retirement welcomingly winking on the horizon.

“In 1905, the Addison brothers opened the shop changing its name to New Kleinfontein Cycles and Motor Works, a nod to the newly established New Kleinfontein mine.

“Sometime in the 50’s, motor works was dropped from the name and the business focused solely on bicycle sales and spares,” said Brian, looking around the shop that once was stocked to the brim.

“My father, Claude, was wholesaler in Pretoria and bought the business from the brothers in 1966. Following his death in 1998 the business again underwent a name change operating as Kleinfontein Cycles & Appliance Spares Centre.”

As a long-serving council representative, member of the Benoni SPCA, Benoni Chamber of Commerce and Benoni Publicity Association committees, Brian played an integral role in the growth and development and economy of the city

“Benoni was a beautiful and vibrant town, eventually growing into a bustling city. Sadly much has changed and a lot of businesses moved from the CBD,” he said.

Touching on the shop’s final closing, at the end of August, Brian says their six decades spent serving to the community has been deeply fulfilling.

“A business cannot survive without customer support. The core of our business has always been to offer quality products and service to our clients,” he said.

“We have been blessed with clients who continued to loyally support us throughout the years. For that we are immensely grateful.”

As they continue to sort through years of accumulated stock, shifting and sorting through each item deciding whether it should be sold or reclaimed, Brian said that closing the shop is bitter sweet but welcome.

“We have worked every day of our lives,” said Joan.

“We are now looking forward to enjoying a much deserved rest. We may even take time to visit two of our three children, who reside in America.”

As a couple who have dedicated their lives to their business, Brian said that adjusting to having more personal time, might prove difficult.

“I will make time to tinker on my classic car collection, while I am sure Joan will enjoy relaxing on the porch, consuming unhealthy amounts of tea,” he said with a smile.

“To the young entrepreneurs, telling you that it is easy would be a lie. In order to run a successful business that stands the test of time, remain disciplined and remember that your customers are the ones who keep your doors open.”

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