Melbourne clothing store closes

One of the longest running gay-owned businesses near Commercial Road has shut its doors. Bang Clothing in Melbourne has closed indefinitely due to poor sales and staffing problems. The gay-owned business started in 1996, specialising in men’s clothing as well as a ticket outlet for gay events. Bang Clothing owner Dean White told the Star Observer he felt disappointed and let down by the Melbourne community. “The Sydney store was making a lot more money, it was paying for the Melbourne overheads for the past two years,” he said. White said Bang used to sponsor Melbourne LGBTI parties and events since it opened but had dropped off over the past few years. He opened up a Bang Clothing store in Sydney in 2006 which exceeded the Melbourne store’s success. White said he was looking at his options on the future of the Melbourne store. The Sydney Bang Clothing store remains open. INFO: www.bangclothing.com.au