PERTH – Australian fashion brand Jeanswest has entered voluntary administration for the second time in just five years, as its parent company, Harbour Guidance Pty Ltd, prepares to shut down all bricks-and-mortar retail stores across the country. While the company will continue operating its online business, the closure of its physical presence will affect 600 employees across 90 stores nationwide.
This is Premium Content
Only user with Online and Print subscription can access this.
If you are a Free Subscriber, click here to upgrade.
If you already have Online or Print subscription Login To Unlock The Content!
Founded in 1972 in Perth, Jeanswest quickly became a staple of casual fashion in Australia, known for its denim products and accessible high street style. The brand grew rapidly during the late 20th century, expanding not only across Australia but also into international markets, including New Zealand and China. At its peak, Jeanswest operated over 150 stores and was one of the country’s most recognised fashion retailers.
However, as consumer behaviour shifted and competition from fast fashion and online-only brands intensified, Jeanswest began to struggle. The company first entered voluntary administration in early 2020, before being acquired by Harbour Guidance Pty Ltd. Under the new ownership, efforts were made to rejuvenate the brand and streamline operations.
Despite five years of attempts to revive the business, Harbour Guidance has now conceded that continuing to operate physical stores is not financially sustainable. The company has appointed Lindsay Bainbridge, Andrew Yeo, and David Vasudevan of Pitcher Partners as joint administrators to manage the process.
Lindsay Bainbridge acknowledged the emotional and financial impact of the decision, stating: “The owners have done everything they can to keep Jeanswest going, but market conditions mean sustaining bricks-and-mortar stores is not viable and unlikely to improve.”
He added that the company, “deeply regrets the impact of store closures on their team members and their customers,” and that administrators would work closely with staff across the country to support them through the transition.
As part of the administration process, Jeanswest will begin an immediate clearance sale, both in-store and online, to sell remaining stock and recover funds for creditors.
Bainbridge confirmed: “We will be opening the doors of all stores and selling online to clear all stock to secure a return to creditors.”
