The Christchurch store was closed for eight months following the February 2011 earthquake. Prior to 22 February, the company employed about 395 staff across its three stores, with about 300 at the City Mall store. The relatively modern construction and low height, at only two storeys, meant it was one of few central buildings relatively undamaged in the second earthquake. The Timaru and airport branches and online store remained open, and the Christchurch store in the City Mall was the first substantial retailer to reopen in the CBD on 29 November 2012 and is trading as normal.