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Sass & Bide, an Australian fashion label, is re-evaluating its retail strategy and is planning to liquidate 10 freestanding locations throughout the country, along with laying off employees. As of the beginning of October 2024, only four shops will remain operational in Western Australia, Victoria, and Queensland as a result of these closures.
According to Myer, 10 Sass & Bide shops will be closing soon since the brand hasn’t been doing well in comparison to other speciality brands like Marcs and David Lawrence. Department store-in-store concessions and the expanding internet retail industry will take the front stage in the closings. The decision is essential for development and long-term sustainability, according to managing director Paula Mackenzie.
The Sass & Bide stores that are confirmed to close include locations in:
- Bondi, New South Wales
- Miranda, New South Wales
- Paddington, New South Wales
- Chadstone, Victoria
- Doncaster, Victoria
- Emporium, Victoria
- Rundle St, South Australia
- Karrinyup, Western Australia
- Canberra, ACT
- Newmarket, New Zealand
Effects
1. Australia’s closures will result in limited access to physical stores, particularly in regions like New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia, which may be particularly frustrating for customers.
2. Sass & Bide plans to shift its focus to online retail and in-store concessions within Myer department stores, limiting customers’ shopping options to online platforms or specific locations.
3. Particularly at Myer concessions where the company shares space, the reduction of freestanding shops might affect customer service dynamics and lead to less personalised in-store assistance.
4. Customers might see clearance deals as the shutting shops sell their inventory, therefore offering a chance for savings on Sass & Bide goods.
Closing ten locations as part of a calculated concentration on internet sales and in-store concessions, Sass & Bide is Although the closings may affect employment and limit physical retail choices, the brand seeks to guarantee sustainability and long-term expansion. This action fits evolving customer behaviour and helps the business to be successful going forward.