Australian Retail Industry & Trends - Feb-Mar 2026

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The Australian retail scene is currently undergoing what experts are calling a “structural reset.” While some big-name brands are tightening their belts, 2026 is proving to be a year of massive reinvention. From the birth of a new industry giant to high-end cookware giveaways, here is what’s shaking up your shopping experience this February and March.

The Big Shake-Up: Industry & Trends

The landscape of how we shop is literally changing at a boardroom level, which trickles down to your local storefront.

The Launch of the Australian Retail Council (ARC): As of February 1, the two biggest retail bodies (ARA and NRA) have officially merged. Why does this matter to you? They are pushing hard for better retail crime laws and a crackdown on “ultra-cheap” overseas platforms to help keep your local favourites in business.
AI Goes Mainstream: If you’ve noticed more personalised “just for you” emails or smarter in-store kiosks, that’s no accident. 2026 is being hailed as the “Year of AI” for Aussie retail, with nearly half of all stores now using it to predict exactly what you want before you even know you want it.

The “Grocery Game”: New Rewards

Supermarket loyalty is the new currency, and the “collectible” wars are heating up again.

Woolworths x Fissler Cookware: Launching March 18, Woolies is pivoting away from plastic toys and toward high-end “adulting” milestones. You’ll be able to earn credits for a six-piece set of German-engineered stainless steel cookware. Given that 20% of us haven’t replaced our pans in three years due to costs, expect these to fly off the shelves.

Fresh Openings & Pop-Ups

Despite the digital boom, physical “bricks and mortar” stores are making a loud comeback with some major flagship launches.

Victoria’s Secret Brisbane Flagship: (Opened Feb 19) The wait is over for Queenslanders; the first full-assortment store in the state has officially landed at QueensPlaza.
Ed Sheeran Tour Pop-ups: (Late Feb) Following his stadium runs, exclusive merch stores have been popping up in Westfield Sydney and Westfield Chermside. Keep an eye on socials as these often appear in Melbourne and Perth last-minute.
Costco’s Aggressive Expansion: The bulk-buy giant has confirmed plans for 20 new stores. While many are still in the planning phase, look for movement in Hobart and Geelong as they push into previously “Costco-less” territories this year.

The March “Madness” Sales Calendar

March is the month of the “In-Between” sale. It’s not quite EOFY, but it’s the best time to snag a bargain.

Afterpay Day: (March 19–22) The biannual event returns. Expect up to 70% off across fashion, tech, and beauty both online and in-store.
Click Frenzy Travel: (March 25) If you’re planning a winter escape, this is the 24-hour window to book flights and accommodation before the school holiday price hikes.
International Women’s Day: (March 8) Look for “Brands that Give Back” campaigns, with many local boutiques donating a percentage of sales to women’s shelters and charities.

New Destinations on the Horizon

The New Sydney Fish Market: Construction is reaching the final stages on this $836 million precinct. It’s set to be a world-class retail and dining hub that will change the face of Blackwattle Bay.
Malls of the Future Summit: (March 24–25, Melbourne) Industry leaders are gathering at the MCEC to showcase the “Self-Optimising Mall”—think stores that change their layout based on who walks in.