The founders of South Australian-based fashion labels, George Gross and Harry Who, are retiring after more than 40 years in the industry.

The fashion designers, George Gross and Harry Watt, started the brands in Adelaide in 1973.

The duo told News Corp the company’s sixteen outlets across the country will close, 10 concept stores in David Jones will be vacated at the end of the month, and the six boutiques by April.

“We are closing because it’s time,” Gross said.

The designers said its 80 staff nationally were told yesterday of the closure and would receive full entitlements.

“We are leaving on our own terms, we are not being forced to close. We’ve reached an age where it’s time to smell the roses – less work and more play.”