Revamp sees Kmart replace Target Country
KYABRAM’S Target Country will be converted into a Kmart hub in September.
Wesfarmers announced on Friday it would close up to 75 of its Target stores and convert another 92 to Kmart stores in a massive restructure of the struggling discount department chain.
A Target spokesperson said the decision was not made lightly.
‘‘We believe Target has a future as a leading retailer in Australia and we know it is loved by so many, but a number of actions are required to ensure it is fit for purpose in a competitive, challenging and dynamic market, including a smaller number of stores and a stronger online business,’’ the spokesperson said.
Echuca’s Target Country will be changed to a Kmart hub in July.
The company said it was taking the necessary steps to ensure staff were looked after during the transformation.
‘‘Across the Kmart Group we have made a significant effort to avoid store closures and retain our people and for impacted store team members we have the benefit of time to help find alternative
❝All team members in Target stores scheduled for conversion will be offered the opportunity to join the growing Kmart team.❞
employment opportunities,’’ the company said in a statement.
Staff at closing Target stores could be moved to one of Wesfarmers’ other brands, such as Kmart or Officeworks.
‘‘All team members in Target stores scheduled for conversion will be offered the opportunity to join the growing Kmart team,’’ the statement read.
‘‘For other affected Target team members, we will work with them to identify and offer other redeployment opportunities in Kmart, Catch, Bunnings and Officeworks as these businesses continue to grow.’’