Chinese manufacturers claim another Aussie victim
The Marrickville-based wholesaler closed its doors for the final time last Friday, citing the high cost of manufacturing onshore and competition from cheaper imports.
The company said union interference with outworkers had also played a part in its decision to shut up shop.
The factory closure meant the loss of a job for at least one fulltime and one part-time worker, however it is understood both staff members have since found alternative employment.
The company, which had been run as a partnership between apparel agents Tony Westcott in Sydney and Tony Clift in Melbourne, had been operating for 35 years and supplied around 200 boutiques and department stores across the country.
Speaking the day before his factory lease expired, Westcott said the duo's hands had been forced.
"Either we had to go totally to offshore production or get out. We were doing about a third of our production in China but that still didn't bring our costs down low enough. Neither Tony nor I wanted to go fully into importing."
Westcott said that his agency business and his imported jeans label, Amque, were both doing well and the loss of Bernini was "not significant".
Bernini manager Claire Rochford, who was with Bernini for 15 years, said when the business was advertised for sale, it had attracted interest from at least seven parties. However, a general lack of experience in the trade had meant none were suitable.
Rochford, who admitted she had expected the move for some time, said she was "disappointed" by the decision.
"It's happening to so many people these days, it's not really surprising."
It is understood the bulk of Bernini winter stock will be delivered by Melbourne contract maker Peter Peck.