Footwear retailer Platypus has opened its 200th store, with plans to roll out another 30 by the end of June 2024.
The new openings will bring the full store network to over 220, with New Zealand approaching 40 sites.
According to parent company Accent Group, all new store openings this year had a regional focus. Platypus is preparing to open more stores in Alice Springs, Mildura, Coffs Harbour and Albury.
“We saw that the regional consumer was shopping our brands mostly online or having to drive a couple of hours away, we wanted to provide the Platypus experience and world's biggest brands to their doorstep,” Accent Group divisional CEO of Retail Brands Armando Pedruco said.
Platypus will also reformat existing CBD locations, with a new premium fitout slated for its Chadstone flagship store in early 2024. Additional flagship stores will be refitted with this model, including Pacific Fair.
The brand’s eCommerce site is currently its largest store, attracting annual traffic of over 20 million.
“Our four-wall growth is a testament to the Australian and New Zealand retail landscape,” Pedruco said. “Our consumer may start their journey online and some finish it there, but there will also be a need for a bricks and mortar location, where consumers can experience the product and brand come to life.
“This is what sets Platypus apart, our instore design, storytelling and theatre. When you walk through the doors of a Platypus store you feel the brand come to life, the loud music, teal lights and fun team.”
Platypus sells a range of footwear brands including Dr. Martens, Vans, New Balance, Converse, Crocs and Adidas.