Oxfam Australia Trading operations will close after a difficult decision made by Oxfam Australia’s Board.
Oxfam Australia COO Tony McKimmie said the decision to close came amid ongoing commercial pressures and a tough retail environment.
McKimmie said declining revenue and profitability in retail and wholesale sales – as well as flat online sales growth – had meant that the financially responsible decision was to close all Oxfam Australia Trading operations.
The closure, which will include retail shops, wholesale and online sales operations, will take place over a phased period starting in May.
“The closure of trading operations in no way reflects the performance of our valued staff and volunteers over more than 50 years,” McKimmie said.
“We know this will be very difficult news for our staff and volunteers – and our customers – given how highly regarded Oxfam Trading has been over many years.
“We sincerely thank them all for their dedication and significant contribution to our core mission of tackling poverty.”