'A sad day': Michael Hill Jeweller closes store due to retail crime

June 14, 2024
Michael Hill Whakatāne.

Michael Hill Jeweller has announced it is closing one of its 45 stores in New Zealand at the end of the month due to a "series of incidents".

The Whakatāne outlet on The Strand will close on June 29 after a "heightened number" of break-ins and smash and grabs, several of which occurred while the store was open.

This is despite investment in security measures including fog cannons, additional cameras, alarm screamers and personal alarms for staff.

Chief executive Daniel Bracken said it was a "sad day" for the business.

"We’re extremely disappointed to have to close our Whakatāne store. Our loyal customers will be encouraged to engage with our digital channel and other Michael Hill stores in the Bay of Plenty."

He said retail crime has had "significant impact" on the business in New Zealand and that shutting the store was the "only option".

"The safety and wellbeing of our team members and customers will always remain our key priority."

Michael Hill Whakatāne's closure follows the permanent shutdown of other stores that have been impacted.

Stores in Takapuna and Papakura were also "repeatedly targeted" by crime and shut down as a result.

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