Millers and Noni B to Close All Stores, Leaving 933 Employees Jobless

Millers and Noni B, two prominent women’s fashion retailers, are set to permanently close all 252 of their stores across Australia and New Zealand, affecting a total of 933 employees. This decision comes as a result of their parent company, Mosaic Brands Group, facing financial turmoil and entering administration back in October 2024. Despite efforts to find a buyer for the brands under Mosaic Brands, including Katies, Rivers, Autograph, Rockmans, Crossroads, W.Lane, and BeMe, all stores are slated for closure by mid-April.

The closure of Millers and Noni B marks the end of an era for these iconic fashion labels, leaving many employees in uncertainty about their future. The receivers of Mosaic Brands have expressed gratitude to the management team, employees, customers, and suppliers for their support during this challenging period. As the stores wind down in the coming months, liquidation sales offering discounts of up to 70% will be held to clear stock.

This development reflects a broader trend in the retail industry, with veteran analyst Geoff Dart forecasting further closures of clothing stores in the near future. Dart highlights the challenges faced by traditional retailers like Myer, emphasizing the need for brands to resonate with consumers and offer value for money to remain competitive. He points out the changing dynamics of consumer preferences, noting that successful retailers will be those with strong marketing strategies and affordable pricing.

The financial implications of Mosaic Brands’ closure are significant, with debts totaling $250 million owed to creditors worldwide, including garment exporters in Bangladesh. While some employees have yet to receive their entitlements following previous store closures, the Shop Distributive and Allied Employees Association (SDA) is working to ensure that union members are eventually paid what they are owed. Union secretary Bernie Smith advises affected employees to keep thorough records of their employment details for future reference.

The closure of Millers and Noni B underscores the challenges faced by brick-and-mortar retailers in an increasingly competitive market. It serves as a reminder of the evolving landscape of the fashion industry and the importance of adapting to changing consumer preferences. As the retail sector continues to undergo transformation, it is crucial for businesses to innovate and respond to market demands to remain sustainable in the long term.