Apple’s largest Australian reseller chain, Next Byte, is set to close its doors after more than 20 years operation. The chain currently has just eight stores nationally, down from 18 when it was acquired by Vita Group for $230 million in 2010.Once a stronghold for Apple Mac fans, the chain has withered as Apple opened its own large glossy upmarket stores. Vita Group relocated a number of Next Byte stores to new locations further away from competing Apple outlets in a bid to keep the business rolling.
Despite some success the chain still failed to perform to expectations.
All remaining eight stores will be closed by March next year. Existing business customers will be served instead through Vita Group’s telecommunications and business operations.