Myer, TK Maxx and other retailers on whether they’ll open in Bundaberg

Bundaberg locals were polled on which big-name businesses they’d love to see opening in the Rum City. From Myer to Lush, we took the top 20 most popular suggestions, went to the retailers and asked: Will you come to Bundy? Read what they said:

Bundaberg locals have revealed the 20 big-name retailers they want in the city.

As Bundaberg grows and new developments start popping up, it’s only natural that more shops will follow suit.

This publication recently asked readers in a Facebook poll, which big-name retailers they wanted most in the city.

We collated the 20 top nominations and contacted them directly to see if they had any plans in the pipeline and this is what they said.

Lush is popular for its richly scented shower and home products. Picture: Lush

Lush

Cosmetics giant Lush said it was “lovely” that so many locals were calling for a store in Bundaberg.

A spokeswoman said there were no plans for a retail outlet, but said the interest could lead to meeting the market half-way.

“We are not aware of any current plans to open a store in this location,” she said.

“However, we will definitely ensure that their request is passed on to our retail team for their future consideration.

“We are always considering new locations for our pop-up stores and kiosks too... we'll keep our fingers crossed for you and your readers.”

Body Shop

Fellow bathroom and beauty products store Body Shop did not respond to our request.

Sephora

Cosmetics giant Sephora did not respond to our request. The chain currently only operates in Queensland in Brisbane and the Gold and Sunshine coasts.

TK Maxx

TK Maxx stores have been popping up all around Bundaberg, including stores in Hervey Bay and Rockhampton last year.

The department store chain didn't give away any secrets when asked, so it may pay to watch this space.

Bundaberg locals would love a Costco.

Costco

Costco is one of the most popular requests when readers are quizzed and has been for quite some time.

But, Bundaberg locals may have to start having bigger families or inviting more friends and family to move here if they want their dream to come true.

Managing director Patrick Noone told us they were always keeping a keen eye on the market in Queensland, but population was often key.

“We continually review all areas of Australia for suitable sites, typically we would like a trade area of 300,000 to 500,000 people with 30 to 45 minute access,” he explained.

“We are reviewing several areas of Queensland and will continue to do so.”

Myer

Several years ago, there were hushed whispers around town of a Myer store coming to Bundaberg, but it looks like the whispers are untrue for now.

A spokesperson for the retailer said they would not be Bundy-bound.

“Although we are so appreciative and thankful for the support of the Bundaberg community for a Myer store, there are no plans to open one at this stage,” they said.

“We do have our online store: myer.com.au available 24/7 to meet the shopping needs of our Bundaberg customers.”

Myer stores have been popping up in regional areas in recent years, including one at Mackay.

Many would be surprised to know Bundaberg had a similar type of department store in David Jones from 1972 until 1981.

Bed Bath ‘N’ Table

Shoppers may have to stick to ordering online for the time being, Bed Bath ‘N’ Table did not respond to our request for comment.

Harris Scarfe

Harris Scarfe did not respond to our request for comment.

Dangerfield has its eye on the regions.

Dangerfield

We are still waiting to hear back from Dangerfield officially, but we can say we believe we’re in with a very good chance.

Dangerfield has plans to open in Toowoomba soon, so the regions are definitely coming into focus.

City Beach

Bundaberg’s stalwarts will remember a time when we had a City Beach outlet in town.

The retailer did get back to us, saying they were passing the feedback on to head office.

Marks and Spencer

Department store Marks and Spencer said it was glad Bundaberg was supportive, but there were no plans to set up shop.

The company directed shoppers to their online store.

Ikea

An Ikea spokesperson said the company was excited by the interest, but sadly had no plans for a store in the city.

They reminded shoppers to make use of their home delivery service, however.

“Ikea Australia’s expansion and growth depends on many factors, but we are pleased to hear that the residents of Bundaberg have such a strong love for and interest in Ikea,” they said.

“While we have no plans to open an Ikea store in Bundaberg, we do offer home delivery to a wide range of regional locations, including Bundaberg.

“We encourage customers to shop online or via the Ikea app and have their order delivered to their door.”

Typo

Typo did not respond to our request for comment.

Adairs

Adairs did not respond to our request for comment.

Could Anaconda have big plans for Bundy? Picture: Tegan Annett

Anaconda

Keep an eye out - the outdoor and camping retailer reached out to say they’d be getting back to us.

Ishka

Seller of on-trend boho wares Ishka has also told us they’ll come back to us with a response.

Krispy Kreme

There's hardly ever been a time when Bundaberg locals haven’t called for a Krispy Kreme outlet to call our own.

While we didn't hear back from the donut chain this time around, we can confirm that when we previously approached them for comment the company said it loved how the region had so many fans.

They said at the time there were no plans to open in the city, but that didn‘t mean they’d never open a Bundaberg outlet.

Culture Kings

Streetwear giant Culture Kings did not respond to our request for comment.

Bread Top

A spokesman for the delicious Asian style bakehouse chain broke the sad news to us that they have no plans for Bundaberg.

Famous Footwear

Could we be in with a chance? Famous Footwear told us they’re passing the call for a Bundaberg store on to management.