Roger David’s Joondalup store is set to be one of the last to close.
Camera IconRoger David’s Joondalup store is set to be one of the last to close. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Sadness as Roger David to close in Perth and across Australia in weeks

Justin Bianchini, AAPWanneroo Times

ROGER David staff have reacted with sadness to news the 76-year-old financially troubled men’s fashion chain is set to close within weeks.

Joondalup store manager Dylan Henderson said the closure of all 57 stores across Australia because of a lack of a buyer was “definitely a big downer” for him and his seven staff.

“We’re all losing our jobs,” he told Community News. “We all love working here. It’s the end of an era after 76 years of being open.”

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Mr Henderson said the Joondalup store had been in the process of closing since the company went into administration last month but had still hoped to be bought out.

He expected his store, one of the busiest out of the WA stores at Whitford City, Rockingham, Carousel, Perth and Booragoon, would finally close in early to mid-December.

“Thank you to all our customers and all the understanding,” he said.

“It’s been great and thanks for supporting us.”

Administrator Craig Shepard, of KordaMentha Restructuring, said Thursday that, while there had been some interest amongst potential buyers, the retail clothing environment was too tough to attract firm bids.

“Roger David was a victim of rising fixed costs, fierce competition from online and global competitors and cautious consumer demand,” he said.

All remaining stock, including the summer range, is being moved into stores and will be priced to clear.

The business was placed in voluntary administration on October 18.

Roger David employs 300 full-time people and almost 200 casuals and part-timers.

“The employees and customers have been remarkable in the past four weeks to help provide the company with cash flow to help pay entitlements and creditors,” Mr Shepherd said.

“Discounts of 60 per cent or more will continue until the last day.”

Roger David has 60 employees in its WA stores.