Myer store to get cafe

MYER has revealed its plans for Townsville as part of a detailed examination of its future strategy.

Myer Holding Limited revealed 19 stores were at risk of closure in its strategy update released to the ASX this week.

The stores will have to improve their commercial position and reduce space or risk closure.

The locations of those stores have not been revealed.

Myer also confirmed stores in Colonnades, Hornsby, Logan and Belconnen would be closed.

The department store chain also announced it would further invest in nine stores.

Part of that investment is set to take place in Townsville.

In the report, Myer announced it would be opening a Degani Cafe at Stockland Townsville.

The new cafe is part of a bid by Myer to invest in new food partners.

Plantation Cafes will be built at three other sites and a pop- up food program will be initiated with Mister Fitz and Doughnut Time in Sydney and Melbourne.

Myer will also expand into the beauty services industry with Hair Do to open in Melbourne and Bondi.

Men’s grooming sections are also planned in southern states.

The new strategy will see Myer test play- centre concepts and the chain is planning to open a Monkey Mania in its Eastland store next year.

Myer will also open per- sonal shopping suites in seven locations which are yet to be announced.

Myer chief executive officer and managing director Richard Umbers outlined the transformation agenda in tough trading conditions for what he called the “new Myer”.

“New Myer will evolve to ensure Myer’s relevance in a highly competitive and rapidly changing retail environment. Customers are increasingly shopping online, and traffic to shopping centres and physical stores is declining,” Mr Umber said.

“All of Myer’s metrics in digital and online are moving strongly in the right direction.

“Sales, profitability, click and collect take up, website traffic and conversion are all increasing.

“Building on the strength of this business is a key focus going forward.”