In a significant turn of events, Calia Australia, renowned as one of the country’s top Japanese restaurants, has officially entered liquidation, marking the end of its culinary journey. This development transpired less than two weeks after a startling move of terminating 100 staff members through email.
The announcement of Calia Australia’s liquidation came via a notice submitted to the Australian Securities Investment Commission (ASIC) on Monday. Glenn Crisp and Andrew Mattison from Jirsch Sutherland have been appointed as the appointed liquidators, entrusted with managing the complexities of the liquidation process.
The management of Calia Australia had, on December 28, notified approximately 100 staff members of their impending job loss in the coming year through an email communication. The email conveyed the restaurant’s efforts to sustain its operations amid challenging circumstances, citing “Covid-related debt” and inflation as pivotal factors contributing to the insurmountable challenges faced by the establishment.
Expressing deep regret and sadness, the email stated, “It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that we must convey the unfortunate news that Calia will be closing all Australian stores and ceasing operations effective today, 28th December 2023.” The management acknowledged the unexpected nature of the news while emphasizing the strenuous efforts invested in attempting to keep the business afloat following the challenges posed by Covid lockdowns.
Calia Australia had entered voluntary administration in June of the preceding year, navigating financial difficulties while continuing its operations. Despite the resilience exhibited during this period, the restaurant faced insurmountable obstacles that ultimately led to the decision to wind up the company.
Calia co-founder and City of Melbourne councillor, Jason Chang, had previously shared the struggles encountered in sustaining the business post-pandemic. Approximately six months ago, he revealed on social media the emotional toll of facing financial challenges associated with rising operational costs, including wages, COGS, rent, and borrowing costs. In a candid admission, he expressed the need for support and the acknowledgment that the challenges could no longer be faced alone.
With the appointment of liquidators and the official notice to wind up the company, Calia Australia’s closure marks the end of an era for this esteemed Japanese restaurant, leaving a void in Melbourne’s culinary landscape.
