Footwear retailer Bata plans to close its remaining 29 stores in Switzerland as part of its ongoing restructuring strategy.
The company has undertaken the restructuring process in the wake of shifting shopping patterns of consumers, who are increasingly purchasing footwear and accessories through multi-brand retailers and websites.
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Bata stated that despite its best efforts, its stores have struggled to compete against the impact of e-commerce and fashion retailers entering into an already-crowded Swiss footwear market, as well as the shift in buying habits among Swiss consumers to shop in France, Italy and Germany.
The footwear retailer’s latest move will axe 175 jobs.
Bata stated that it is looking for ways to reduce the social and financial impact on the employees.
In a statement, Bata said: “Management has informed employees about the closure and appropriate solutions are being proposed, including new job opportunities with other retailers for more than 40 employees and apprentices.”
Its products will continue to be available to Swiss customers through a multichannel approach, including multi-brand retailers, www.bata.com, and authorised dealers.
Bata retail stores in Italy, Spain, Czech and Slovak Republics, as well as its domestic and international franchise businesses, will continue to serve their customers.
The latest decision does not impact Bata’s service and advisory company, which is based in Lausanne and employs around 30 people.
Image: Bata to close remaining 29 stores in Switzerland. Photo: courtesy of Bata.
