Stuff Group to close Petone printing press by 2027 in cost-cutting move

Stuff Group has announced plans to shut its Petone printing press by 2027. The move comes as part of a cost-cutting strategy to streamline operations across the company. Printing work will shift to Christchurch, but no existing facility has been confirmed there yet. The Petone site was acquired from Australia's Nine Media in November 2022. Since then, the new owners have focused on reducing expenses and improving efficiency. The decision to close the plant follows this long-term goal, which began when Sinead Boucher took over Stuff Group for $1 in 2020.

The shutdown will affect 30 employees at the Petone facility. Consultations with staff will take place over the coming weeks and months. The company has stated it will explore options to relocate workers, including potential roles at the Christchurch site. Decommissioning the Petone plant is already in motion. However, the only confirmed project in Christchurch so far is a museum development, set to begin construction in September 2026 with around 15 employees. No details about a new printing facility have been released.

The closure of the Petone press marks a significant change for Stuff Group's operations. Thirty jobs will be lost, though redeployment opportunities may arise. The company's focus remains on cutting costs while maintaining its printing capabilities elsewhere.