Josh Murfet's Devonport Sports Store Liquidated Amid Rising Costs

Josh Murfet took over the Devonport, Tasmania sports retailer Evolve Sport and Leisure in 2023. The business was placed into liquidation on June 28 after a combination of higher insurance premiums (about $3,000 per year), steep rent and tax increases, rising stock costs and intense competition from online sellers offering deep discounts. Murfet said he could not raise prices because customers would simply shop elsewhere.

Devonport City Council executive manager Matthew Skirving noted a pop‑up initiative in the Rooke Street Mall aimed at boosting foot traffic for local retailers. The challenges faced by Murfet echo those of other Tasmanian small businesses, such as the recent liquidation of Tarkine's Ridge in Somerset.