US brands land in Brisbane

Pottery Barn kidsUS retailer, Williams-Sonoma, will open its first Queensland stores under the Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids and West Elm brands in Brisbane’s  Fortitude Valley in October.

Scheduled for opening on October 1, the Brisbane stores follow the company’s Australian debut in Bondi Junction, Sydney in April 2013. There are now also stores in Chatswood, Chadstone, Fyshwick, and South Yarra.

The three home furnishings stores will sit side by side at street level occupying 2310sqm and will be staffed by 90 full time and part time employees.

“Brisbane is one of the fastest-growing capital cities in Australia,” said Ron Young, senior VP global of Williams-Sonoma.

“As such, our global expansion will continue with three stores opening in Fortitude Valley, amidst a hive of activity already established. At the heart of our brands – Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids and West Elm – is unique design, exceptional customer service, and a calendar of instore experiences for our customers,” Mr Young said.

A line up of local, creative collaborations will coincide with the stores’ opening day celebrations, including a partnership with Brisbane designer and letterer Jasmine Dowling, coffee and cookies created by local baker, The Sugar Hit, and paper rosettes and mini badge making led by Brisbane stylist Kara Hynes (AKA Lulu Lucky).

SHARE THIS ARTICLE

FURTHER READING

Retail Voice CEO Message: 29 March 2023

With the New South Wales state election complete, we now have a Labor government in place in every state except Tasmania and an 18 month window without any elections occurring.  
 
This provides a period where we may see significant reform and potentially for national alignment in key policy areas across Australia.  

The rich tapestry of neurodiversity

There is a slow shift towards incorporating design aspects that create more inclusive shopping experiences for customers of all neurotypes. Retailers willing to explore this hidden customer segment can deliver a more easy, engaging and inclusive experience both in-store and online.

Retail Voice CEO Message: 15 March 2023

Retail crime continues to be a concern with many businesses recording an increase in shoplifting. 
 
In the latest Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research data coming out of New South Wales, retail theft increased 23.7% year-on-year.