Signs were put up for the new UNIQLO store on Sunday. Photo: Ben Calvert Photography.
Fans of the Japanese clothing retailer UNIQLO won’t have to make the journey to Sydney or Melbourne for much longer: the brand has confirmed it will be opening a store in the Canberra Centre this year.
Shoppers may have noticed on Sunday afternoon (2 July) that signs were being put up teasing the new store, which is due to open in late 2023.
“After receiving an overwhelming amount of requests and encouragement from local customers to open a store in Canberra, we are really pleased to share that UNIQLO will be opening our first-ever store in ACT in the Canberra Centre late 2023,” a UNIQLO spokesperson confirmed on Monday (3 July).
The store will be located on the ground level of the Ainslie Mall, occupying much of the space previously occupied by Target.
The spokesperson told Region the new store will cover over 1210 square metres of retail area and will stock its full ‘LifeWear’ range, which UNIQLO describes as “simple, high-quality everyday clothing”. This will also include six self-check-out machines and 12 change rooms.
UNIQLO is known for its minimalist basics, practical clothing for every occasion, collaborations with high-profile designers, and – especially relevant for Canberrans – its range of down jackets and heat-preserving layers.
It already has more than 25 stores in Australia and more than 3700 around the world.
In preparation for the Canberra store’s opening, UNIQLO will be recruiting for staff positions, including sales assistants, administrative staff and alterations specialists.
“In the meantime, we have commenced recruitment for our Canberra store team, and we’re looking for individuals that are passionate about providing great customer service, connecting with the local community and helping Canberra customers experience our globally loved LifeWear range that is made for all,” the spokesperson said.
They said we can look forward to further updates soon, and customers can download the UNIQLO app to follow any updates on the new store.
“We look forward to providing the community with a further update once we know more, and we encourage all interested applicants to visit our website for more information.”
There have been plenty of rumours and speculation about what could be opening up in the Canberra Centre, especially with the recent announcement that Muji will close on 16 July, leaving another vacant spot.
“We are very excited to host Canberra’s very first UNIQLO store, alongside an array of other exciting, nationally recognised retailers, with more brands to be announced very soon,” Canberra Centre general manager Gary Stewart said.
“Ainslie Mall is currently undergoing significant upgrades, allowing us to bring an even better mix of retailers to our visitors. We’re placing particular emphasis on athleisure, adventure and the outdoors,” he added. One of these retailers will be a new Rebel rCX flagship store, which is also due to open in late 2023.
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