It has been a busy start to the new year for the Canberra Centre, with announcements of a major store closure, centre upgrades and brand-new retailers expected to open in the coming months.
While we know we weren’t the only ones devastated to hear that Canberra’s only Zara store was closing, the news that a Mecca flagship would be taking its place definitely softened the blow. Set to be one of the largest Mecca stores in Australia, it will boast additional beauty services including private beauty rooms and brands.
While we will no longer be able to shop Zara in-store, the closure of their Canberra store, as well as over 1000 stores worldwide, is in-line with their pivot towards a more digitally focused future and stronger online presence.
For the Canberra Centre, the news coincides with reconfiguration and upgrade works that began in January throughout Ainslie Mall on Level 1. This will include a number of new brands opening in Canberra for the first time, including Chanel Fragrance and Beauty, as well as the return of a few fan favourites. There will also be upgrades made to the roof and façade on Bunda Bridge.
“These works represent the ongoing evolution of retail and lifestyle offerings at Canberra Centre, to better meet the needs of our customers now and in the future, including the introduction of new-to-market brands and flagship concept stores, and the redeployment of existing brands,” says General Manager of Canberra Centre, Gary Stewart.
“We look forward to sharing more information about our exciting plans for the centre once all commercial details have been finalised,” he says.
With the exciting changes expected to conclude in the fourth quarter of 2025, further announcements of new retailers are expected to be revealed in the coming weeks.
To stay up to date, visit the Canberra Centre.
