New Gunnedah Kmart store will retain all 13 Target staff and employ 14 additional locals

Kmart is retaining all staff, with 13 Target team members gaining positions once the shop is converted and 14 additional team members recruited from the local community.

After a long history in Gunnedah, Target Country Gunnedah shut up shop on Saturday, January 16.

A Kmart spokesperson said they are giving the store a "light touch make over for now", so they don't inconvenience the community with a long store closure.

However, Kmart has big plans to evolve the look and feel of the store over time.

"Things may look a little different to what you'd expect from a Kmart store today," the spokesperson said.

"We want our customers to have easy access to the items they need, which is why we're focusing on speed to market.

"For now, we've taken our most popular Kmart products across kids, home and clothing; and brought them to life in a new way.

"A collection inspired for a smaller format store, with bigger convenience in mind.

"K hub customers will be able to pop in and visit our teams in store, or shop Kmart's entire product range online using home delivery or click and collect services."

The hub stores will also be used as a collection point for online Target orders.

"As a business we're committed to opening stores in new communities; and we can't wait to welcome the community of Gunnedah to our brand-new concept K Hub store on February 3."

Moree's Target store will also convert to Kmart early this year, but Armidale and Narrabri's stores will close.