After operating for just over two decades, Queensland-based homewares retailer Earthborn has gone into liquidation.
The latest casualty of the retail downturn (along with Laura Ashley and Dick Smith), the franchise went into liquidation a week ago and has now closed its doors.
The company was founded by Philip and Patricia Walker 21 years ago, when they started selling ceramics at their local market. They went on to expand to more than 10 stores across Queensland, including in Westfield Clarindale, Cairns Central and Indooroopilly Shopping Centre, which was the last to shut.
The collapse follows the decision a month ago to call in specialist accountants and advisors, SV Partners, with David Stimpson and Terrence Rose appointed to liquidate the company.
Customers with gift vouchers have received little communication from Earthborn’s directors, saying phone lines have been disconnected and emails are bouncing back.
Earthborn stores at Tweed Heads, Kawana and Harbour Town remain open, as they are run by franchise owners who told The Courier Mail the company was hit by “tough times” but they would continue trading independent of the company.
By Ruth Cooper
