THE new owners of Fremantle’s Chart and Map Shop have plotted a new course for the iconic business – relocating to Jolimont and focusing on its online presence.

The shop went into liquidation in March, leaving its eight staff without jobs. 

After going on the market, it was purchased by Jolimont-based digital marketing agency Distl who saw off bids from a local consortium and an eastern states firm.

Distl owner David Metcalf told the Herald the Chart and Map Shop’s lease was due to end on Wednesday, leaving them with just a week to move everything out.

• The Chart and Map Shop has up sticks and headed to Jolimont.

“It’s all just packed up in boxes; this is very much an evolving plan,” Mr Metcalf said.

He says they are likely to “consolidate” the shop’s stock, as he felt it had expanded a little too far over the last couple of years, but at the moment will be focusing on providing custom and laminated maps and the shop’s unique travel books.

Mr Metcalf said while emptying the shop this week he got a first-hand look at locals’ attachment, and knows its relocation will be a blow for the city.

“Every person stops and presses their face to the glass, wondering what’s going on inside,” he said.

But the end of the lease made a move north inevitable.

The Herald understands that internationally renowned jeweller Sally Scoufis will be setting up in the High Street shop.

by STEVE GRANT