Wesfarmers Shuts Down Catch.com.au After Years of Losses

The $230 million acquisition failed to compete with global e-commerce giants, leading to a decision to wind down operations and cut costs.

Wesfarmers announced the closure of online retailer Catch.com.au, which will cease operations by April 30, 2025, after consistent financial losses.
The company, purchased for $230 million in 2019, reported cumulative losses exceeding $350 million over the past three and a half years.
Intensifying competition from global players like Amazon, Shein, and Temu significantly impacted Catch's profitability and growth prospects.
Catch's warehouses will be repurposed by Kmart to improve delivery efficiency and reduce costs, while nearly 200 jobs will be cut, with some staff offered roles elsewhere within Wesfarmers.
Wesfarmers expects one-off closure costs of $50–$60 million but views the shutdown as a strategic move to focus on its more profitable retail brands.