Novel Move For Whitcoulls Lambton Quay

Media release
April 23, 2012

Novel Move For Whitcoulls Lambton Quay

After 104 years on the same site, Whitcoulls Lambton Quay is set to close the doors of its historic store and merge into the former Borders, just a couple of minutes away.

Whitcoulls’ Lambton Quay was purpose-built for Whitcombe and Tombs in 1904, only 22 years after the “two Georges” formed their business partnership in Christchurch. The store was renamed Whitcoulls in 1973.

But now, with two large Whitcoulls stores so close to each other in Wellington, staff and stock from Lambton Quay are relocating to the larger site.

The company is consolidating all staff in the one bigger store and two management teams have been working towards the relocation over the past eight months.

“It’s sad to say goodbye to the old store – it has been a Wellington institution for many years and holds countless memories for customers and staff alike,” says Wellington Regional Sales Manager Lisa MacKenzie.

“While we respect the heritage of the building and all the wonderful years we had there, the move is an important step in expanding our range to further meet the needs of our Wellington customers.”

“The new location is perfect for shoppers, especially those who work in the city and have limited time to shop. Plus at around a quarter bigger than the old store, it makes for a much more spacious shopping experience.”

The new store will have a dedicated space for fashion and personal stationary, including exclusive ranges from UK’s WH Smith.

A large children’s area is also being incorporated to educate and entertain children and their families.

Whitcoulls will close the door of the Lambton Quay store for the last time on May 31 when all 28 staff members are relocated to the new premises. There have been no job losses in the move.

About Whitcoulls
Whitcoulls is a major national bookstore chain offering a wide selection of books, e-books, gifts, games, toys, puzzles, DVD’s, cards, wrap and stationary from 62 stores nationwide. Whitcoulls was founded in 1882 when George Tombs, a printer and bookbinder, and George Whitcombe, a publisher and bookseller, combined their businesses to create a national publishing company. In 1971, Whitcombe & Tombs merged with key competitor Coull Somerville Wilke - a major printing and manufacturing company with a specialised focus on commercial stationery and office supplies. As a result of this merger, Whitcombe & Tombs was renamed Whitcoulls in 1973. Whitcoulls is now proudly New Zealand owned by the James Pascoe Group which includes The Farmers Trading Co, Stevens, Pascoes the Jewellers, Stuart Dawson’s and Gold mark.
www.whitcoulls.co.nz

ENDS

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