First Big W stores to close in Sydney

Big W has revealed the locations of the first locations to close as part of its move to right-size its store network over the next three years.

The discount chain, which is owned by Woolworths Group, announced it has reached an agreement with landlords to close its Chullora, Aubur and Fairfield stores in Sydney in January 2020.

The stores will continue trading for the next six months, during which time team members will be given support to explore opportunities to continue their career at Big W or other Woolworths Group brands, the retailer said in a statement on Thursday.

“These are not decisions we take lightly and we regret the impact the closures will have on affected team members,” David Walker, managing director of Big W, said.

“Supporting our team remains our priority and we are committed to doing the right thing by them.”

Walker said the retailer will continue to work with landlords over the coming months as part of its network review, which is expected to result in the closure of up to 30 sores and two distribution centres in Warwick, Queensland, and Monarto, South Australia, over the next three years.

The purpose of the review is to build a strong, profitable and more sustainable store and distribution centre network that reflects customers’ needs and the rapidly changing retail environment, Big W said.

“We would like to acknowledge the support of the communities of Chullora, Auburn and Fairfield and the hard work and commitment of our store team members.” 

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