USG Boral will be closing its Darwin trade store indefinitely citing a lack of staff to run its operation because of the COVID-19 vaccination mandate, a letter to customers states.

The letter from national sales operations director Mike Fitzgerald said the plasterboard and building materials company reviewed its options but came to the conclusion it had to close indefinitely.

“Due to the latest Northern Territory COVID-19 Public Health Orders we are no longer able to safely man the store and after many reviews of possible options the company has unfortunately made the decision to close the store indefinitely,” he wrote.

“The safety of our staff and customers is always foremost in what we do and has weighed heavily on our decision making.

“I know this has come at a bad time however it was the company’s intention to inform you of this decision as soon as it was made to dispel any further uncertainty.”

USG Boral was contacted for comment.