Outlets in Ireland and the UK will be affected by a “dramatic shift” to online shopping.
Audio equipment manufacturer Bose is set to close 119 retail stores located across Ireland, the United Kingdom, North America, Australia and Japan.
The company announced the decision on Wednesday, citing the “dramatic shift” to online shopping in specific markets as the key factor regarding the closures.
Bose products are currently available in Ireland via numerous retailers and audio specialists, though Dundrum Shopping Centre in Dublin houses a dedicated Bose store which is now expected to close.
Approximately 130 stores will remain open in China, the United Arab Emirates, India, Southeast Asia and South Korea.
Bose will be offering outplacement assistance and severance to affected employees. Additional details, including the number of employees affected, have not been disclosed by the company.
The first Bose retail outlet opened in 1993 in the United States.
“Originally, our retail stores gave people a way to experience, test, and talk to us about multi-component, CD and DVD-based home entertainment systems,” said Colette Burke, vice president of Global Sales for Bose Corporation.
“At the time, it was a radical idea, but we focused on what our customers needed, and where they needed it – and we’re doing the same thing now. It’s still difficult, because the decision impacts some of our amazing store teams who make us proud every day.
“They take care of every person who walks through our doors – whether that’s helping with a problem, giving expert advice, or just letting someone take a break and listen to great music. Over the years, they’ve set the standard for customer service. And everyone at Bose is grateful.”
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