INDEPENDENT ACQUIRES ASSETS OF OVERSEAS CHAIN IN LIQUIDATION

An independent practice in Bondi Junction has acquired unspecified assets following the closure of an overseas-owned optical chain’s Australian stores.

Carolina Lemke Berlin, the Israeli owned optical network which had set up stores in Australia several years ago, has exited the Australian market closing its three stores in Sydney and one in Melbourne.

The Sydney stores were located in Westfield Bondi Junction, Westfield Miranda, and World Square in George Street.

Tracton Optometrists in Bondi Junction, Sydney – established by Mr Daniel and Ms Michelle Tracton last year – have emerged as the buyers of the three closed Sydney stores’ assets.

“This decision made sense for us. The Carolina Lemke store in Bondi Junction was a mere 150 metres away from our new practice,” Tracton said.

“When they closed the stores, patients of all three sites were at a loose end, looking for a new place for their eyecare and eyewear. We are very happy to give these patients continuity of care in our practice, especially as we approach the busy optical period,” he said.

Carolina Lemke is part of the Hoodies group of four companies: Hoodies, Top Ten, Carolina Lemke and Accessories London. It was acquired over a decade ago by Castro Model Ltd.

Carolina Lemke, which also operates stores in Europe, the UK and the US, did not respond to Insight’s request for comment.