Iconic Maitland Street business to close doors

Almost twenty years ago, on April 1, 2000, Narrabri’s David Pierce opened the doors on Authentic Trademarks, a new clothing and lifestyle business in Narrabri.

Authentic Trademarks, in the heart of the CBD, brought innovation, new ideas, exciting store design and a fresh approach to retail.

The business has been, and continues to be, a success story.

However, this week, Mr Pierce announced that he is closing the doors to pursue a new career path.

He has always been a passionate advocate for young people in the community, as a mentor and an advisor, presenting opportunities at Authentic Trademarks for young people to learn business skills, gain confidence and realise their potential.

And his significant contribution to the community will continue in a different form.

“I won’t be leaving Narrabri and will be taking up a position in town which will allow me to continue that role in encouraging and supporting the aspirations and wellbeing of our community’s fantastic young people,” he said.

“The opportunity arose and I accepted it.

“I will still be very much involved in the community and with young people.

“I want to play my part in creating opportunities for country kids.”

He acknowledged that stepping back from the operation of a business into the new role will require adjustment. But it’s time for a new direction,” he said.

“I have made the decision to end Authentic Trademarks.

“I have spent 35 years working in the fashion retail industry, and the last 20 years building the Authentic Trademarks brand.

“Over the years I have been dedicating my work to the business, working with the local community and above all mentoring my staff, past and present, to set them on their life’s journey,” he said.

“This has been one of the hardest decisions for me to make.

“I love my business, my team, my customers and our community, but all good things must come to an end. It is now time for my new journey to commence.

“I want to express my deepest thanks to all of my wonderful customers,” he said.

“Without you all, this place I’ve called my home would not be what it is today. It has truly been a wild ride. The memories made within these walls will last a lifetime and I only hope that you have all enjoyed this as much as I have.

“To be proud of my achievements would not be possible without the support of the Authentic Trademarks community, friends, family and staff who have been there from the start.

“I can never thank you enough for everything you have all brought to my life’s journey thus far.

“It may be the final chapter for Authentic Trademarks, but the future is yet to be written.”

Mr Pierce said although he would close the doors, Authentic Trademarks was on the market and he hoped someone would take the opportunity to continue the iconic store which attracts customers from across the North West.

“I begin my new position in February, but the final day of the shop is yet to be determined, possibly the end of February.”

He invited anyone interested about a future with the store to talk to him.

“It is a an opportunity for someone,” he said.

“I took the opportunity originally 20 years ago and I have enjoyed every minute of it.

“But there comes a time in your life when you need to change and I believe now is my time.”

Many in the community have expressed regret that Authentic Trademarks is closing.

Mr Pierce’s contribution to the Narrabri business scene, community, customers and staff has been considerable.

Many young people have had the opportunity through Authentic Trademarks to gain business experience and the ‘confidence of the catwalk’ – taking part in some of the many fund raising fashion parades for charity over many years which Mr Piece organised, staged and choreographed.

Young staff have had their introduction to retail at Authentic Trademarks and gone on to pursue their careers with greater maturity, an understanding of business principles and better equipped to deal with the challenges of the world outside Narrabri Shire.