Farmers staff and customers safe

See our New Zealand Earthquakes page for ongoing updates - infonews.co.nz

There have been no serious injuries to team members or customers reported to Farmers department store management following the major earthquake at 12:51pm today.

Farmers has approximately 450 team members working across seven stores in Canterbury.

“While the earthquake has caused widespread destruction to Farmers stores in the region, we can advise there was no serious injury to Farmers staff or customers and for that we are truly grateful, says Farmers CEO Rod McDermott.

“We know there is extreme hardship and suffering for Canterbury at this time. Farmers has a long a deep relationship with the community impacted and we feel for the community and extend our sympathy to Cantabrians that are suffering today.

“Right now our team members are tending to their families, friends and their homes. Our thoughts are with all of them,” says Mc Dermott.

Reports from local Farmers stores indicate the damage to Christchurch City is more severe than from any of the previous earthquakes. All stores have been closed and it’s unknown when they will re-open.

As soon as logistically possible, a team will be despatched from Farmers Support Centre to aid the Christchurch stores and team members.