Shearer’s bricks-and-mortar store to close

31 March 2014 Books+Publishing

Shearer’s Bookshop in Leichhardt, Sydney, will close its bricks-and-mortar store on 31 May but will continue to operate as an online business.

Shearer’s co-owner Barbara Horgan told Books+Publishing that the decision was made after an unsuccessful search to find a new home for the store. As previously reported by Books+Publishing, Shearer’s moved to a temporary location in the Marketplace Leichhardt shopping centre in April 2013 after renovations began on its premises on Norton Street. Horgan said that ‘prohibitive rents’ were a significant factor in the decision to close, and also cited family reasons.

In a letter to customers on 31 March, owners Barbara and Tony Horgan said it was ‘with deep regret [that] we have had to make the decision to close the bricks and mortar side of Shearer’s Bookshop’. ‘Shearer’s opened its doors in Gordon 28 years ago and 16 years ago found its new home in Leichhardt. In that time we have enjoyed talking books with you, our lovely customers, who have always been so loyal, friendly, and supportive.’

The Horgans said that their business will continue to operate online. ‘Our new website is nearly ready to go live and we have great plans to run the Shearer’s website with creativity and flair. The website will still have reviews and recommendations, new and exciting content, and a 10% discount—all with the personal touch you have come to expect from us at Shearer’s.’

Horgan said that the store is currently looking for a buyer for its schools business.

Category: Local news