Suppliers owed $2.3m after Sequel Books goes under. 

 

Queensland’s schools supplies sector is reeling following last week’s news that Brisbane stationery and textbook supplier Sequel Books has entered voluntary liquidation

 

Liquidator Chris Baskerville from Jirsch Sutherland said the company owes creditors $5 million, including $2.3 million to suppliers.

 

Baskerville told news.com.au that among the suppliers are stationary companies as well as publishing houses, while it was also likely the Australian Taxation Office was owed money, along with some parents.

 

 

Sequel Books was the textbook and stationery supplier for students at 54 Queensland schools.

 

Customers had previously complained that it had been struggling to deliver orders since the start of this year, with the company receiving 1700 emails asking why orders had not arrived before the start of term one.

 

On 5 January, the company sent an email to customers explaining that workforce issues were behind the delays.

 

“We have encountered challenges this season, including the departure of our warehouse manager at the beginning, and issues sourcing a reliable casual workforce that have significantly impacted our usual efficiency,” the company’s director Anna Henderson (pictured) wrote.

 

The delays led many customers to cancel their orders, with some not yet receiving a refund.

 

Below is the full statement posted on Sequel Books’ website:

 

Dear Reader,

 

I write to inform you that Sequel Books & Stationery has entered into liquidation.

 

This decision was made after careful consideration and with profound regret. The economic challenges proved insurmountable for our business, leading to the difficult conclusion of nearly three decades of operation.

 

I extend my deepest gratitude to the schools, customers, and suppliers who have supported Sequel throughout the years. Your loyalty and patronage have been invaluable to us.

 

My heartfelt appreciation also goes to our dedicated team, whose unwavering commitment has been instrumental to our journey. The challenges you have endured over the past few months have been huge and you have all faced them with such grace, I am in awe of you. 

 

Throughout our tenure, Sequel has proudly contributed to various families, community events, and charities. We are honoured to have made a positive impact in these spheres.

 

To my family, whose steadfast support has sustained me, I express profound gratitude. Sequel's closure marks the conclusion of a longstanding legacy in the book industry, spanning generations since 1902.

 

From Barkers Bookstore, to BCF (Barker, Conlan & Ferrett), and now Sequel Books & Stationery, it has been the honour of our family to serve Queensland’s education community. 

 

As we bid farewell, I urge continued support for independent retailers. Please remember the importance of shopping small and local.

 

Regarding the settlement of outstanding accounts, our appointed liquidators will be in contact with all relevant parties promptly. Any queries in the mean time, please contact [email protected] or call 1300 547 724

 

With sincere appreciation and warm regards,

 

Anna Henderson & the Sequel Books Family