Australia's Beloved BBQ Chain Collapses: 500+ Jobs at Risk as Barbeques Galore Enters Administration

Hundreds of jobs are in jeopardy after one of Australia's most iconic barbecue chains, Barbeques Galore, collapsed this week, sending shockwaves through the retail sector.

Voluntary Administration Appointed

A voluntary administrator was appointed to the nationwide retailer on Thursday, putting the future of approximately 500 staff members across the country in uncertainty. Barbeques Galore is Australia's largest barbecue and outdoor furniture retailer, operating 68 company-owned stores and 27 franchise stores.

Store Distribution Across Australia

• 33 stores in New South Wales
• 19 stores in Victoria
• 18 stores in Queensland
• 14 stores in Western Australia
• 5 stores in South Australia
• 3 stores in Tasmania
• 2 stores in the Australian Capital Territory
• 1 store in the Northern Territory

Current Operations and Customer Impact

Global firm Ankura has been appointed as receiver and manager of the chain. The company has stated that Barbeques Galore will continue normal operations for the foreseeable future while a restructure or sale of the business is considered.

Important information for customers:

• All in-store and online orders that have been paid for, or partially paid for, will be honoured
• Store voucher holders face significant restrictions - they must pay $2 for every $1 they hope to redeem (for example, spending $200 cash to redeem a $100 voucher)

Company Background and Recent Developments

Barbeques Galore has been supplying Australians with barbecues since 1977, boasting the widest range of barbecue products including LPG, natural gas, charcoal and electric options. The retailer carries popular brands such as Turbo, Beefmaster and the award-winning Ziegler & Brown.

This collapse comes just two months after the company's sale to US-based private equity firm Gordon Brothers. At the time of acquisition, a spokesperson indicated Gordon Brothers would focus on "the next phase of growth for the business" and support its "ongoing transformation."

What's Next for the Business?

A first meeting of creditors is scheduled for February 24, where the future direction of the company will be discussed. Meanwhile, Barbeques Galore's website is currently promoting a sale with up to 60% off barbecues and up to 40% off outdoor furniture.

The collapse highlights the ongoing challenges in Australia's retail sector and serves as a reminder of the importance of job security and company stability in today's economic climate.