Longstanding specialty craft retailer Lincraft has announced the closure of its store network after more than 80 years in business.

Once boasting 67 stores in Australia and New Zealand, Lincraft said the decision comes after a “prolonged period of challenging retail conditions”, citing changes in consumer behaviour, increasing costs, and pressure from overseas, low-cost competitors.

The retailer has been in a gradual wind-down of its store network, including its sites in Christchurch, Taupo, and Upper Hutt. In 2024, it quietly slashed its store portfolio to 31; it has just 24 sites listed on its website now, all of which are in Australia.

The business – formerly known as Suzanne Silks – was bought and restructured by John Maguire and Brian Swersky, leading to the establishment of Lincraft Australia in 2005. It entered New Zealand in the early 2010s, before reaching nine locations in the country by 2015.

“Lincraft has been part of Australian and New Zealand communities for generations,” Maguire said. “This has been an extremely difficult decision, particularly because of the impact on our team members, many of whom have given years of loyal service to the business.”

The company’s stores will close progressively on an individual basis, Lincraft said, while also continuing operations through its website.

“Our priority is to support our team members through this transition and to communicate with them as clearly and respectfully as possible,” Maguire added.