Carters chain to close on Sundays

Carters hardware stores are cutting down their opening hours to a six-day week, citing a desire to focus on trade sales.

Carters chief executive Stuart Munro said the retail arm of Carter Holt Harvey wanted to focus on its large trade customers, such as in the building, furniture and joinery trades, and on Sundays "they're usually out fishing".

"We do service Mr and Mrs Smith and the DIY'ers but a Joe Public who just wants a bolt or screw or paintbrush is not really who we are set up for.

"So we will leave it to the big box companies to fight out that retail space on Sunday."

Munro said Sundays were profitable to the company, but cutting them out would reduce pressure on staff and improve staff retention - a priority given the difficulties the low unemployment rate meant for finding the right workers.

"We believe it will remove some stress for our staff and they can have a family day. You could say it's a bold move, but maybe it will start a bit of a revolution and give people some time back."

Munro expected other hardware retailers would stay open seven days, but other retailers could follow suit.

"Like us, with a low unemployment rate in New Zealand everybody is struggling to find the right skills base for staff."

Carters operates 40 stores.