Godfreys

Godfreys returns under new ownership

The well-known Australian vacuum cleaner retailer Godfreys has made a return to the market following its closure and later acquisition in 2024. 

The company announced  its relaunch on LinkedIn in December. 

“Who said Godfreys was closed and gone? Godfreys is coming back, baby!” the post read. 

“The Godfreys brand has faced its challenges, but as they say, it doesn’t matter how you fall; it’s all about how you rise! We are coming back!”

Rather than reopening under its previous bricks and mortar model, Godfreys will now operate exclusively online, leaning into the growing e-commerce market in Australia. 

In June, Future Innovation Holdings acquired Godfreys’ brands and assets, aiming to revitalise the retailer through an online and wholesale business model. 

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The company faced significant financial challenges that led to its collapse and the closure of all 141 stores across Australia and New Zealand in May last year.

While Godfreys was established in Melbourne in 1931, it became a household name in the 1980s when its television ads hit Aussie screens. 

The adverts were famed for their fast pace, flashing graphics and enthusiastic delivery from face of the Godfreys brand, John Hardy. 

Under the new ownership, Godfreys has integrated its operations with Central Cleaning Supplies, a major distributor of cleaning materials and equipment in Australia. 

Read more: Best-rated barrel and upright vacuums 2024

Customers will be able to purchase from vacuum brands, such as, Wertheim, Sauber, I-Vac, Pullman and Optim. 

Godfreys’ shift to an online-only model reflects a broader trend of reviving established brands through e-commerce, following similar strategies employed by retailers like Dick Smith and Pumpkin Patch.

 

Rachel Bollerman
Content Producer
Rachel Bollerman is a Content Producer on Canstar Blue's Home and Lifestyle team. Rachel graduated with a Bachelor of Communications, majoring in Journalism at the Queensland University of Technology. She has worked in a variety of public relations, marketing and communications roles, gaining experience in community management, social media marketing, blog writing and other styles of copywriting. Prior to joining Canstar, Rachel worked at the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health where she assisted with campaign management and communications across the organisation. When she's not working, Rachel enjoys doing arts and crafts projects at home and spending time with friends.

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