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

The closure of women’s clothing stores Millers and Noni B across Australia and New Zealand has sent shockwaves through the retail sector, leaving 933 employees facing unemployment. This decision marks the end of an era for these iconic brands under the Mosaic Brands Group, following the group’s descent into administration in October 2024.

As the last remaining hope for survival within the Mosaic Brands portfolio, Millers and Noni B succumbed to the inevitable fate of closure, with all 252 outlets set to cease operations in the coming weeks. Receivers KPMG confirmed the shutdown, emphasizing that despite exhaustive efforts, no sale of the brands could be secured, leading to the winding down of all stores by mid-April.

The closures extend beyond mere business statistics; they represent the displacement of hundreds of workers and the loss of familiar shopping destinations for many loyal customers. The impact reverberates not only through the retail landscape but also within the communities where these stores have been pillars of fashion for years.

Retail analyst Geoff Dart foresees a broader trend of clothing store closures on the horizon, pointing to Myer’s acquisition of Apparel Brands as a potential precursor to further challenges in the industry. Dart highlights the evolving consumer preferences that favor brands with strong marketing strategies and value propositions, such as Kmart, as essential for survival in the competitive retail environment.

The financial implications of Mosaic Brands’ collapse are significant, with debts totaling $250 million owed to creditors worldwide. Among those affected are 23 Bangladesh garment exporters awaiting over $20 million in payments. Additionally, several employees have yet to receive their entitled benefits, including accrued annual leave and severance pay, underscoring the human toll of these closures.

The Shop Distributive and Allied Employees Association (SDA) has been actively engaged in the administration process to ensure that union members receive their due compensations. Bernie Smith, SDA NSW secretary, reassures affected employees of ongoing efforts to secure their entitlements, urging them to retain thorough records of their employment history for future claims.

The closure of Millers and Noni B not only marks the end of an era for these storied brands but also serves as a poignant reminder of the evolving dynamics in the retail sector. As the industry navigates unprecedented challenges, the resilience and adaptability of businesses will be crucial in shaping the future landscape of women’s fashion retail.