DFS' Auckland store will continue operating until the end of September. Photo: Supplied
Luxury travel retailer Duty Free Shoppers has confirmed it will close all stores in Australia and New Zealand by the end of September.
Duty Free Shoppers (DFS) told RNZ its Sydney store would remain open through 10 September, while its Auckland and Queenstown outlets would continue operating until 30 September.
The move was part of a broader effort to streamline global operations in response to what the company described as "challenging economic conditions".
"This decision reflects challenging economic conditions and is aligned with DFS' broader strategy to optimize global operations," the company said in a statement.
"We are immensely grateful to our employees for their hard work, passion and contributions, and to our partners and customers for their loyalty over the over the years."
Founded in Hong Kong in 1960, DFS pioneered the concept of tax-free shopping.
Now part of the French luxury conglomerate Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the company operates in major airport terminals and city centers, offering high-end fashion, beauty products, accessories, jewelry and alcoholic beverages from more than 750 brands.
DFS' Queenstown store will continue operating until the end of September. Photo: Supplied
DFS first entered the Oceania market more than 30 years ago, becoming a fixture for international tourists seeking tax-free luxury goods.
The Auckland store opened in the 1990s, operating out of the historic Custom House in the heart of the city's central business district.
In late 2022, DFS expanded to Queenstown, one of New Zealand's premier tourism destinations.
The closures reflect a broader shift in trading conditions across the Asia-Pacific region, as the travel retail sector continues to navigate post-pandemic recovery, changing consumer patterns and economic headwinds.
DFS did not disclose how many employees would be impacted by the closures of its Australia and New Zealand stores but confirmed that support would be provided to staff.
"We are unable to provide the number of employees affected, but we can confirm that transition support is in place for them." the company said in a statement.
