THE permanent closure of Gawler’s Flight Centre was part of a broader company decision to cut the travel centre’s store network by half.

A Flight Centre spokesperson said planned network changes, brought about from the major impact of COVID-19 and ongoing border restrictions, has seen Flight Centre reduce its store network by 50 per cent, since March.

“Flight Centre Gawler was closed as a result of these business decisions,” she said.

“Most of the fantastic (employees) have been redeployed to either FC Barossa Valley or FC Elizabeth and all customer bookings have been seamlessly moved to FC Barossa Valley.

“Our experienced consultants will also be in contact with their clients to let them know of the move.”

“While both stores are a distance away from the Gawler shop, we are always available online and also by phone if customers don’t wish to travel the approximate 17km (Elizabeth) or 25 km (Barossa) to an alternative store.”

The Gawler Flight Centre was opened 17 years ago, in 2003.