Meet Mat Keepa — a friendly, community‑minded retailer who brings genuine warmth, energy, and heart to Corio Village. Known for his easygoing nature, memorable conversations with customers, and passion for value, Mat takes pride in offering a wide range of products locals rely on every day.

Tell us a little about your business — how did it all begin?

The Reject Shop offers everyday essentials at affordable prices, giving customers access to great products without the supermarket price tag. Mat loves being able to help shoppers save money while still getting the things they need.

What’s your most popular product right now?

Right now, 10L kitty litter is flying off the shelves — a simple staple that regular customers return for week after week.

How long have you worked here, and what do you enjoy most?

Mat has been with The Reject Shop for three years, and for him, it’s all about the people.

He loves helping customers find cost‑effective options that genuinely save them money. The day‑to‑day chats, the familiar faces, and the sense of community within the centre all make his job meaningful. Being part of a place where everyone contributes to the atmosphere is something he values deeply.

What products or services do you offer that people should know about?

Mat is especially proud of the greeting card section — a surprisingly extensive range at affordable prices. With plenty of stock and something to suit every occasion, it’s a hidden gem many customers come back for.

Do you have a favourite product at the moment?

Last year’s Christmas range was a standout for Mat. From the trees to the decorations, he loved the variety and quality of the seasonal range.

Do you have any regular customers you enjoy chatting with?

Absolutely — Wendy and Rick are two regulars Mat always looks forward to seeing. Rick once mentioned he needed to get more active, so now every Sunday, Mat aims to join him for a walk to help him stay motivated and get out and about. It’s small connections like this that make the job special.

What’s the funniest or most memorable customer request you’ve had?

One memorable moment involved a shopper visiting from Albury who originally asked for three 50L storage containers ahead of a move to Ballarat. Mat ended up selling her ten — and she later returned to buy the rest of the stock!

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Outside the centre, Mat loves four‑wheel driving, gold prospecting, and spending quality time with his two sons.

What do you love most about your role?

For Mat, it always comes back to people and connection. Helping customers find what they need, hearing their stories, and being part of a vibrant retail community are the things he values most.

He’s proud to contribute to an environment that feels welcoming, friendly, and distinctly Corio Village.