Global footwear and apparel retailer Foot Locker is gearing up to open a new store at Melbourne Central this week featuring the retailer's new global concept - the first Australian store of its kind.
Set to open this Friday, October 18, the newly designed format marks the fourth global unveiling by Foot Locker following successful launches in New York, New Jersey, and Paris.
Located on Level 1 near Melbourne Central’s clock and shot tower, the 920 square metre store will feature Foot Locker’s 'Home Court' experience - a multi-brand basketball activation developed in partnership with Nike and Jordan Brand.
Foot Locker Home Court will house the latest on-court and off-court products from Nike and Jordan Brand as well as brand partners Adidas, Puma, New Balance, Under Armour, and others.
According to the retailer, the new store will also feature technologies that offer real-time inventory access and streamlined checkout.
The reimagined concept comes as Foot Locker, Inc celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2024.
"Melbourne’s love for sneakers, sports, and basketball culture makes it the perfect location for our first Foot Locker reimagined store in Australia,” Foot Locker APAC VP and general manager Natalie Ellis said.
“We’re thrilled to offer the unique Home Court experience, developed in partnership with Nike globally and locally, as well as deliver an elevated, community-driven shopping experience for our customers that celebrates sneaker culture and is rooted in innovation and personalised service.
“This store sets the stage for what’s to come in the region as we gear up for the next 50 years, ensuring that Australia experiences the best Foot Locker has to offer at the same pace as other key markets around the world."
To mark the opening on Friday, Foot Locker will host exclusive sneaker launches, in-store promotions, meet and greet opportunities, sneaker customisation and shopping spree competitions as well as limited-edition gifts with purchase and live entertainment.
“Foot Locker has long been the global home of sneaker culture, and our new store concept embodies this spirit by serving and inspiring consumers from all segments in Australia,” Ellis said. “We take immense pride in introducing this innovative experience in Melbourne, a space designed to foster community, embrace technology, and showcase top-tier sneaker offerings. This new location at Melbourne Central will become a go-to destination for passionate fans eager for the latest in sneaker culture.”
Alongside this new retail format, Foot Locker is implementing a store refresh program globally. Approximately two-thirds of global Foot Locker and Kids Foot Locker locations will undergo a refresh by the end of 2025.