Sass and Bide to Close Stores: A Major Business Transformation

Sass and Bide's Strategic Shift

Sass and Bide, the popular Australian clothing brand, has announced its decision to shut 10 stores across the country, impacting numerous jobs. Starting October 6, the designer label will consolidate its operations to just two standalone locations in Queensland, as well as one store each in Victoria and Western Australia.

• Locations affected include Bondi, Miranda, Chadstone, and Paddington in NSW.
• Stores in Doncaster and Emporium in Victoria, Rundle St in South Australia, and Karrinyup in WA will also close.
• Additional closures are planned in Canberra and Newmarket, New Zealand.

Sass and Bide's managing director, *Paula Mackenzie*, acknowledged the impact on staff at the closure locations and stated, ***“We will be offering all available support to them and will offer redeployment, where possible for our store team members.”*** Mackenzie explained that these decisions were made to reposition the business for sustainable growth.

Focus on Online Growth

The brand is pivoting to enhance its online presence and focus more on in-store concessions. Mackenzie stated, ***“We have been reviewing the store footprint for S&B to ensure it is aligned with our popular in-store concessions and growing online business.”*** This move is designed to meet the needs of their loyal customer base effectively.

Sass and Bide, now fully owned by Myer, was co-founded in 1999 by *Sarah-Jane Clarke* and *Heidi Middleton*. Myer has made substantial investments in the brand, acquiring a controlling stake in 2011 and later purchasing the remainder in 2013. The store closures follow Myer's report of a preliminary 2.9% sales decline in its latest trading update, significantly influenced by the underperformance of brands like Sass and Bide.