Lincraft to Shut All Stores, Shifting to Online-Only Model

Australian craft and homewares retailer Lincraft has announced it will close its remaining physical stores, ending a retail presence that has spanned more than 80 years.

The company confirmed the move this week, citing mounting pressures from rising costs, changing shopping habits, and growing competition from overseas online retailers.

Around 300 employees will be affected by the closures, although the company says all staff entitlements will be honoured.

“It comes after a prolonged period of challenging retail conditions,” Lincraft said in a statement provided to The Epoch Times.

While the brand is exiting traditional bricks-and-mortar retail, it will continue operating through its online platform as it shifts entirely to e-commerce. Store closures will occur progressively over the coming months, with individual store timelines to be announced separately.

End of an Era

Lincraft’s origins date back to 1938, when it began as a market stall in Melbourne. The business later expanded into one of Australia’s best-known fabric, craft, and homewares chains.

The current business structure was established in 2005 when it was acquired by owners John Maguire and Brian Swersky.

Managing Director John Maguire acknowledged the impact the decision would have on employees.

“Lincraft has been part of Australian and New Zealand communities for generations,” Maguire said.

“This has been an extremely difficult decision, particularly because of the impact on our team members, many of whom have given years of loyal service to the business.”

Retail Sector Under Pressure

Lincraft is the latest retailer to retreat from bricks-and-mortar operations as traditional chains struggle to compete in an increasingly online marketplace.

The announcement follows the collapse of Mosaic Brands Group, which in October 2024 revealed plans to close all of its retail brands, including Millers, Noni B, Katies, and Rivers. At the time of its exist, Mosaic operated 763 stores across Australia and New Zealand and employed about 3,000 staff.

The latest closure adds to growing evidence of the pressures facing Australian retailers as consumers tighten spending and shift more of their purchases online.