Glue Store has permanently closed its remaining 16 physical stores and its online portal, delivering another blow to Australia's struggling retail sector. The once-popular fashion chain confirmed the news in a brief message on its website, stating, 'After many years of bringing you the styles you love, Glue Store has permanently closed — both in store and online.'
Gratitude and future direction
The message expressed gratitude to customers, saying, 'We are so grateful for your loyalty and support over the years. The good news? Our family of brands is still here for you, with the same great range and the style you expect.' However, the statement did not specify how many jobs would be affected by the closure.
Final sales in Melbourne
On social media, Glue Store posted a 'final call for Melbourne,' announcing that while the online store is closed, customers have a last chance to shop in person at its Emporium Store in Melbourne. Deals were offered from Thursday to Sunday, with the post declaring, 'We’re closing our Emporium Store in Melbourne, and we’re going out with a bang.'
Financial struggles and parent company decision
Glue Store has been facing difficulties since 2024, when it was revealed that half of its stores would close due to underperformance. The final blow came in February when parent company Accent Group deemed the chain 'unprofitable' and announced it would shut the remaining 16 outlets if they were not sold. Glue recorded a loss of $8.4 million in the first half of the 2026 financial year, including provisions set aside for closure.
Redirecting customers
The store's website has stopped accepting orders and now directs shoppers to other brands under Accent Group's umbrella, such as Dr Martens, Lacoste, Platypus, and The Athlete's Foot. This closure follows similar announcements from Lincraft, which is closing all physical stores, and Barbeques Galore, which is shutting dozens of locations.
7NEWS.com.au has contacted Accent Group, which acquired Glue Store in 2021, for further comment.
