The Sweet Life
After almost a quarter of a century selling candy, it’s safe to say that Robyn Jenkins’ sweet tooth level is into expert territory. Luckily for Coffs Coast residents and visitors, Robyn and husband, Peter are committed to putting that expertise to good use in their specialty candy store, Harbour Sweets.
Robyn spent 10 years as a dedicated employee before she and Peter took over the business in 2004. Since then, they’ve been serving the Coffs community with everything sweet from the old faithfuls to new and exciting (and sometimes even a little bit weird) treats. While a lot has changed since they started working in the shop, many things remain the same.
“We always have lots of sweet stuff in store – including me!” laughs Robyn.
You’ll find trusted favourites like jersey caramels, chocolate raspberries, lolly snakes and liquorice but there are also crazy creations like Bean Boozled, a kind of ‘jelly bean roulette’ game that includes delicious flavours mixed with horrid ones (think dead fish and vomit…play at your own risk).
Harbour Sweets is the only stockist of the iconic Darrell Lea on the Coffs Coast. In addition to the Australian brands, they have some exotic treats from across the globe including the UK, US and Italy. “We have these amazing super-sour boiled lollies from England. It’s always fun watching people try them out in store,” says Robyn.
Coffs Harbour
The swag of vegan, sugar free, dairy free and gluten free treats has grown exponentially in recent years. Harbour Sweets also stock a range of soft toys and wooden toys, handmade by Peter’s uncle.
Tongue-in-cheek, Robyn says the job isn’t always glamourous. “It’s pretty tough doing quality control but someone has to do it.”
Of course, the couple have regular customers who walk in and simply order ‘the usual’. However, Robyn and Peter also love helping new customers find the perfect treat for a loved one, create a personalised pack or branch out and try something new for themselves.
For Robyn, “The best thing about owning a sweet shop is that almost everyone comes in with a great attitude.”
Just like kids in a candy store, Robyn and Peter are in their element at Harbour Sweets and expect to be sharing their love of lollies for a long time to come.
For more information, you can also find them on Facebook.