Wittner’s Collapse Marks Another Blow to Australia’s Struggling Retail Industry

The voluntary wind-up of Wittner, an Australian shoe manufacturer, is yet another significant hit on Australia’s retail sector. Known for its beautiful shoes, the 113-year-old brand is under investigation by Deloitte specialists who are looking at whether a sale or restructuring might save the business.

A Growing List of Retail Collapses

Wittner’s fall follows a string of recent closures among household names including Jeanswest and several Mosaic Brands labels like Katies, Rivers, and Noni B. These collapses have collectively resulted in the loss of thousands of retail jobs across Australia.

Stores Remain Open for Now

Currently, Wittner Shoes operates 20 standalone stores nationwide, alongside 25 concessions located within Myer and David Jones department stores. Administrators confirmed that all locations will continue to trade during the administration period.

Rising Costs Outpace Online Growth

Although Wittner has seen an increase in online sales this year, it hasn’t been enough to offset rising expenses.

“Sales growth has been outweighed by increased cost pressures, including rising wages, occupancy expenses, ongoing supply chain disruptions, and tougher trading conditions,” the company said in a statement.

Deloitte Seeks Buyers or Investors

Deloitte’s Sal Algeri assured staff and customers that it’s “business as usual” while the financial review takes place.

“We understand this is a stressful time for Wittner’s employees,” Algeri said. “We are now seeking expressions of interest from potential buyers or investors interested in revitalising this iconic Australian brand.”

A Century-Old Brand at Risk

Founded in 1912 as a mail-order shoe business, Wittner has become a staple in Australian fashion retail. However, its future now hangs in the balance. Deloitte has not disclosed how many people the company currently employs.

Union Raises Concerns for Older Female Workers

The Retail and Fast Food Workers Union (RAFFWU), which represents some Wittner staff, says many affected employees are older women who have spent years with the brand.“These boutique brands are often heavily feminised workplaces,” said union spokesperson Josh Callinan. “They typically employ older women, who can find it more difficult to secure new work after closures like this.”