By Ewen McRae
The Bacchus Marsh Target store will close next year, following a reevaluation of stores across the state by owner Wesfarmers.
Up to 167 Target or Target Country stores will be closed or converted to Kmart stores. The Bacchus Marsh store is slated for closure in early to mid-2021.
Wesfarmers managing director Rob Scott said the decision was made following a review in the Target side of the business, which showed it had an “unsustainable financial performance.”
“For some time now, the retail sector has seen significant structural change and disruption, and we expect this trend to continue,” Mr Scott said.
“The actions announced reflect our continued focus on investing in Kmart, a business with a compelling customer offer and strong competitive advantages, while also improving the viability of Target by addressing some of its structural challenges by simplifying the business model.
“The reduction in the Target store network will be complemented by increased investment in our digital capabilities.
“The expansion of our digital offer will provide customers with access to the Kmart and Target products they love via home delivery or click and collect.”
Federal government frontbencher David Littleproud said the announcement of store closures was especially disappointing for regional areas, which would be hardest hit.
He called on customers to voice their displeasure with their wallets.
“I think this is a time where corporate Australia needs to show some social licence,” Mr Littleproud said.
“They make a lot of money; they make billions out of Australians. And the reality is, they want to turn their back on the most vulnerable, just goes to show that corporate Australia has lost its way morally.
“We’ve got these types of stores, these general stores doing this sort of stuff to regional Australia, just goes to show they don’t give a rat’s about us.
“I think Australians should vote with their wallets and not go near them. That’s the sort of reaction that all Australians should stand united.”
