Homewares retailer Earthborn collapses into liquidation

A homewares business that had been operating for just over 20 years has collapsed into liquidation.

Earthborn Pty Ltd appointed external managers late last month, with David Stimpson and Terrence Rose from SV Partners appointed joint liquidators.

Earthborn has more than 10 retail stores across Queensland, including in the Indooroopilly Shopping Centre, Westfield Clarindale and Cairns Central.

The company’s website and Facebook page are currently offline.

Staff at the Indooroopilly store were sent a letter advising them to shut down with only a day’s notice, according to The Herald Sun.

Seven other company-owned stores have reportedly closed, however, SmartCompany was not able to confirm this information with the liquidators.

Franchise-run stores in Tweed Heads, Kawana and Harbour Town continue to trade because they are independently owned, according to the Herald Sun.

Earthborn was established around 21 years ago when its founders, Philip and Patricia Walker, began selling ceramics at their local market.

The directors reportedly sold their multi-million dollar home a few months before liquidators were appointed to the Earthborn business, according to The Courier Mail.

Earthborn is not the first homewares business to fall on tough financial times in recent months.

Earlier this year, home furnishings company Laura Ashley collapsed into voluntary administration and 12 of the retailer’s outlets have ceased trading.

In September, the Moss River homewares retail chain, which had been operating since 1975, fell into the hands of external managers.

SmartCompany contacted SV Partners for comment but did not receive comment prior to publication.

SmartCompany was unable to contact Philip or Patricia Walker for comment.