ABC Shops to close, 300 jobs to go

THE ABC is shutting down its network of physical stores as it shifts to an online retail model.

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THE ABC is shutting down its network of physical stores as it shifts to an online retail model.

Around 300 staff employed at the broadcaster’s 50 stores and 78 ABC Centres located within other retail outlets were informed in a national video hook-up last night, the ABC reports.

The ABC said there would be a number of redundancies.

“There will be significant job losses. It’s a sad day for them,” ABC managing director Mark Scott told ABC radio on Thursday.

In a statement, the ABC said the changing retail environment and rise of digital subscription services made it no longer possible for the ABC to sustain a large network of leased stores, traditionally reliant on CD and DVD sales.

“The ABC Shops have been an important part of the ABC’s relationship with its audiences for the past 35 years and this decision has not been taken lightly,” said Robert Patterson, director of ABC Commercial.

“However, this strategy will create a more cost effective, nimble and flexible approach to servicing customers. This direction is also in keeping with the shift of ABC audiences to accessing content across an array of digital platforms, while maintaining an appropriate level of physical retail distribution.”

Regina Hoekstra, head of ABC Retail, said the welfare of staff would be the primary focus. “We are conscious that the ABC Shop is close to the hearts of our teams and we appreciate their ongoing hard work and dedication,” she said.

The ABC will review its lease arrangements with landlords and begin a “phased exit” from its portfolio of ABC Shop properties.

It says ABC DVDs, music, books, toys and merchandise will still be available to purchase through ABC Shop Online and other retailers.