She started at Warrnambool's first Woolworths store in Koroit Street in 1972 when she was just 16 years old, and has been with the team ever since it shifted to the Raglan Parade site which has just unveiled its brand new look.

"When I started I worked in the snack bar where they used to have hot food and drinks," Ms Strotten said.

"There's been so many changes over the years, in those days we used to close at 1pm on Saturdays and open again on Monday, there was no self-service and the stores were much smaller.

"I never planned to be here this long, but the staff have always been great to work with and it's lovely to be able to connect with customers."

Ms Strotten and loyal customer Merrill Hose were acknowledged at the store's official re-opening on Thursday.

Following 20 weeks of renovations, the store has a brand new rustic feel, with a new deli, bakery with artisan goods and a dedicated plant-based meat selection.

Store manager Norm Whiting said it had been a tough few months for the team.

"These works had been in the pipeline for a number of years and we finally got there," he said.

"It's been a tough time for everyone but we traded the whole time and thank our customers for putting up with all the disruptions."

Merrill and her husband have been shopping at the Woolies store for 48 years since it opened in Koroit Street. Now their whole family shops there too.

Her husband did the previous two refurbishments at the store.

"It just feels like home here," she said.

"The staff know me and I love catching up with them.

"The amount of food on offer has changed so much over the years. Now they've got instant meals and pre-cut fruit and vegetables for people on the run. We never used to have that!"

The store is back to its full trading hours, seven days a week.

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