Michael Hill has opened its first flagship store in New South Wales at Westfield Bondi Junction, marking the introduction of its ‘Store of the Future’ concept to the Sydney market.
The new location follows the same flagship format as Melbourne’s Chadstone Shopping Centre and Bourke Street Mall. It is part of the company’s expansion into key retail destinations across Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.
Store Concept and Layout
The Bondi Junction store features the latest iteration of Michael Hill’s retail format, with updated interior design incorporating ambient lighting, natural materials, and green onyx finishes. The store includes dedicated zones for core product categories, including the Pendant Bar, the recently launched Earring Charms, and the Wedding Band Concierge.
Chief Marketing Officer Jo Feeney said, “From lighting to consultation areas, every design element has been curated to support a comfortable shopping experience, in line with the brand’s focus on accessible luxury.”
CEO Jonathan Waecker added, “Bondi is one of Australia’s most iconic retail and lifestyle destinations, and this flagship marks a major milestone in our brand’s growth after successful flagship openings across Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.”
Launch Activity
The store opened to the public on 8 November with a weekend of promotional activity. The first 100 visitors received complimentary pendants, with further incentives including Kora Organics gifts for members of the Brilliance loyalty programme and complimentary gelato offered in-store on 8 and 9 November.
Business Context
The opening comes as Michael Hill International continues to adjust its store network. A recent trading update confirmed the closure of 13 stores across Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, reducing the company’s footprint to 284 locations.
Despite a decline in total revenue during the 16 weeks from 30 June, same-store sales rose by 0.7% in Australia and 4.1% in Canada, while falling 6% in New Zealand. The company reported a year-on-year increase of 100 basis points in group gross margin for the same period.
Waecker noted that Canada continues to perform strongly, stating, “Our Canada segment – our second largest market – continues to deliver record-breaking sales performance, reinforcing its role as a key growth engine.”
The company plans to open three more flagship stores in the coming months, including one additional Site in Australia and one in Canada.
