Mikhaela, left, Micah, and Carla at the front of the queue for the opening of the redeveloped Emporium. Picture: Nicole Garmston Source: News Corp Australia
THE doors have opened on Melbourne’s new-look Emporium, and excited fashionistas have rushed to be the first in the country to get their hands on international brands.
Hundreds of eager shoppers queued in Lonsdale St before the ribbon was cut and glamorous models arrived in horse and carriage to unveil the old-meets-new themed mall.
Brisbane’s Tammy Hahne, who loves coming to Melbourne to shop, said it was the first time she had been able to see some brands up-close, including the much-anticipated Japanese retailer Uniqlo.
“I can’t believe they’ve fit this many shops in,” Mrs Hahne said.
Shoppers and media at the opening. Picture: Nicole Garmston Source: News Corp Australia
Emporium managing director Angus McNaughton told the crowd he was excited to be “delivering to Melbourne a fantastic mix of iconic retailers”.
“We’re exceptionally excited to be opening the first stage of Emporium Melbourne,” Mr McNaughton said.
Developer Grocon handed over the keys at midnight to the former Myer Lonsdale St store site, which has been transformed into a seven-level shopping mecca in the $1.2 billion redevelopment.
Doors opened at 9am with street performers, live music and runway shows.
One hundred and seventy of the centre’s 225 stores will open today in the soft launch ahead of a gala opening in August, featuring movie director Baz Luhrman as creative director.
“We’re expecting all 225 stores to be fully open and trading by August,” centre manager Steve Edgerton said.
The centre boasts cutting-edge, user-friendly design with the largest collection of Australian designers under one roof, including sass&bide, Willow, Bianca Spender, Jack and Jac and Zimmerman.
The Herald Sun was yesterday given a peek inside as hundreds of workers bustled about preparing the stores and public areas.
Mr Edgerton said it was an adrenalin rush in the closing stages of the race to get a centre of this size open.
“It’s a traditional race to the line, but it’ll be finished,” he said yesterday.
“It’s a simple design; warm, understated and very Melbourne,”
The new Melbourne Emporium. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: News Corp Australia
Jade Jackson (mulitcoloured), Grace Quealy, (in purple) and Monique Hodson-Smith (in blue) at the new Melbourne Emporium. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: News Corp Australia
Japanese fashion chain Uniqlo opened its first Australian store within the centre with a VIP party last night.
More than 500 celebrities and business leaders were entertained to the beat of Japanese drummers and a traditional barrel breaking ceremony while toasting the occasion with sake.
The new Myer Emporium sneak peak. The interior of the new Uniqlo sore. Picture: Alex Coppel Source: News Corp Australia
Uniqlo PR and events manager Kate Evans said the brand’s quality, functionality and affordability will attract customers.
“It’s easy and convenient shopping, our Japanese style of customer service is unique as well,” she said.
kim.wilson@heraldsun.com.au
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