After more than 80 years in business, Lincraft has announced it will progressively close its remaining physical stores across Australia and New Zealand, moving to an online-only business model. Around 300 employees are expected to be affected. The company has advised that employee entitlements will be paid as stores close over the coming months.
If you’re one of the employees affected, it’s natural to feel uncertain. But redundancy doesn’t mean your career has come to an end—it means it’s time to prepare for your next opportunity.
1. Don’t Wait Until Your Last Day
Start updating your resume now while your experience is still fresh.
Think beyond your job title and include achievements such as:
Customer service excellence
Sales performance
Cash handling and point-of-sale systems
Stock control and inventory management
Visual merchandising
Team leadership and training
Store opening and closing procedures
2. Your Skills Are More Valuable Than You Think
Retail experience is highly transferable.
Employers across customer service, administration, warehousing, logistics, healthcare, banking, local government and hospitality all value people who can communicate effectively, solve problems and work in fast-paced environments.
3. Review Your Redundancy Entitlements
Make sure you understand your:
Redundancy pay
Annual leave
Long service leave
Notice period
Superannuation
If you have questions about your workplace rights, the Fair Work Ombudsman provides official information and guidance.
4. Start Looking Before Everyone Else Does
Hundreds of people entering the job market at the same time creates competition.
Updating your resume, LinkedIn profile and beginning your job search early gives you the best chance of securing your next role before the market becomes crowded.
5. Focus on the Future
Many people who leave retail discover rewarding careers they had never previously considered.
The experience you’ve gained serving customers, solving problems, managing stock and working as part of a team is valuable across many industries. The key is presenting those skills in a way employers understand.
Your Next Opportunity Starts Today
Redundancy is a significant life event, but it doesn’t have to define your future. With the right preparation and a clear strategy, it can become the beginning of a new career.
The Australian Redundancy Centre provides practical career guidance, professional resume writing, interview preparation and job search support to help Australians confidently transition into their next role.