Further Pumpkin Patch Stores to Close

Further Pumpkin Patch Stores to Close

The receivers of the Pumpkin Patch group have announced the closure of further Pumpkin Patch and Charlie & Me stores in both New Zealand and Australia.

A further 68 stores will close by Tuesday 31 January 2017 with the loss of up to 560 jobs. In addition, two earthquake damaged stores that are currently closed will not be reopening.

Receiver, Neale Jackson said that further closures had been signalled in late November 2016 when the decision was made to wind down the business after it failed to attract a potential buyer.

“We have successfully traded stores through the traditional holiday period and stock levels are now considerably reduced. The balance of stock will be consolidated in the remaining stores as the receivership enters its final phase.

“All Pumpkin Patch staff are aware that the business is closing down and that stores will gradually close as stock is sold. Staff have been advised of impending closure dates and have access to EAP support services. They will receive holiday pay, outstanding wages and other preferential entitlements (up to the statutory cap in New Zealand).

As a result, head office staff have also been given notice that their employment will be coming to an end progressively over the coming weeks.

“This has been a very difficult time for all Pumpkin Patch staff. We acknowledge and thank them for continuing to work diligently to see the closure process through,” Mr Jackson said.

The remaining 56 stores will close as and when stock is sold, through to mid-February.

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