The demise of Kmart

[bcla]

Haven't read the whole thread but I was wondering what the connection is between Kmart USA and Kmart Australia.
When I went to Australia 3 years ago I saw a lot of Kmarts and they reminded of the 80s-90s vibe I remember the store had growing up. - I bought a lot of stuff there out of nostalgia. Not exactly the same as Kmarts in America but gave a very similar feel.

A lot of towns in Australia seem to be stuck in the 80's and that's a reason why I'm so in love with it. I saw a lot of old school stores like ice cream parlors, record stores, video rental, electronics repair etc.
Some towns in Australia are almost literally time machines to the 80's. Port McQuarie and Newcastle are 2 that spring to mind, if you've ever been you'll agree.

Sad to see the Kmart stores in America almost gone entirely. I absolutely loved going.., stuff wasn't top quality, but it didn't feel any worse than Walmart and the vibe was definitely nicer.

It apparently started as a joint venture between an Australian company and S.S. Kresge (the original Kmart). But then it became independent in the 70s, I suppose with a perpetual license to use the name. At least it's not like Target Australia, which supposedly has no official relationship and only hints that there was some unofficial arrangement.