Just months after it was announced that 30 Big W stores would close due to falling profits comes another blow for fans of the store.
Woolworths Group has now announced it will close its entire 41-store Big W Optical business. The shock closures will affect 175 optical staff, including optometrists and sales staff.
While some staff members may be moved to other departments within the Woolworths Group, it’s been reported that a number of permanent staff will be made redundant.
The Big W Optical business launched in 2007, following the success of similar set-ups in Walmart in the US. However it’s believed the chain failed to gain momentum in Australia’s high-volume optical market, sparking the closures.
Speaking to Insight, a Woolworths spokesperson told said: ‘As part of our strategic review, we are working toward building a stronger and more profitable Big W for the future and therefore we have made the decision to focus on categories that are core for our customers.’
The spokesperson added: ‘Additionally, we have a specialist support resource that is available to all Big W Team members and will remain available for three months after they finish their employment with Big W. Last, we will continue to work with each team member individually to understand their preferences.’
Image: Getty
Amy SinclairAmy Sinclair is a contibutor for New Idea Food.
