The $170 million redevelopment of Melbourne Central, led by The GPT Group, is underway.
Delivered in partnership with Maben and ARM Architects, the project will see a new dining, entertainment and retail offering, bringing around 7800sqm of new retail space across levels three and four.
It will include Melbourne’s first flagship Books Kinokuniya store; a large-format entertainment hub, and more than 10 new food venues.
“As a Unesco City of Literature, we believe Melbourne’s creative and literary culture aligns deeply with Kinokuniya’s identity,” said Satoshi Yada, MD of Books Kinokuniya Australia.
“As we explored opportunities in Victoria, Melbourne Central stood out in particular because of its unique and easily accessible location, and its strong connection with younger audiences and contemporary lifestyle.”
Its concept store will be built on a temporary basis on level two before the permanent flagship opens in 2028.
Currently recording annual sales of more than $700 million, with a 100 per cent occupancy rate, Melbourne Central attracts more than 55 million visitors each year. The GPT Group says it’s one of Australia’s leading retail destinations.
“With Melbourne CBD retail sales exceeding $3.9 billion annually and consumers increasingly seeking out experience-led destinations, we are seeing strong demand for high-quality entertainment, leisure and dining offerings in the city,” Chris Barnett, head of retail at The GPT Group, said.
“The introduction of Melbourne’s first flagship Books Kinokuniya store brings a unique point of difference to the city’s retail landscape. Combined with premium entertainment and dining experiences, the development will unlock significant value and create an even more compelling destination for visitors to meet, shop, dine and play in the heart of the city.”
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