Auckland-based denim retailer, Route 66, has shut its physical store permanently, following Suits on Broadway as the latest victim of Covid-19 disruption in Newmarket. 

The brand’s owner, Todd Male, said the decision has been a while in the making and the only choice was whether or not to renew the lease. However, Route 66 will continue its online business with a new site coming online next month. 

“It has been an amazing journey for us, and we’re so grateful for all the support we’ve gotten from everyone who has been involved,” the retailer said on Facebook. “Kevyn would have been incredibly proud of Todd if he was with us to see how iconic and legendary this business grew to be.”

The first Route 66 store was opened in 1989 by Todd’s father, Kevyn Male, before closing in 1995. 

“His vision and passion for retail started a long time ago, from which the Route 66 story grew. He was very proud at how quickly the store became a denim destination for so many Aucklanders and people from all over New Zealand,” Male said. 

The end of Route 66’s brick and mortar presence followed the closure of high-profile Auckland suit store, Suits on Broadway, last month due to Covid-19.