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Comprehensive Report on Fitout Costs of Shopping Centers and Retail Fitouts in Australia (2025 Market Analysis)

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This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the retail fitout costs in Australia, focusing on various types of retail fitouts, such as food and beverage, fashion, and entertainment. The report covers the current market trends, average costs per square meter, and key factors influencing these costs. It also includes case studies of recent fitout projects in major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
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Cost Premiums

  • Sydney +15-20%
  • Melbourne +10-15%
  • Brisbane Base
  • Perth +5-10%
  • Adelaide -5-10%
Case Studies
  • Sydney: A recent fitout of a high-end fashion boutique in Sydney's CBD highlighted the importance of bespoke design and high-quality materials, with costs reaching $2,200/m².
  • Melbourne: A food court renovation in a major Melbourne shopping centre demonstrated the impact of integrating sustainable practices, with costs averaging $2,800/m².
  • Brisbane: An entertainment venue fitout in Brisbane showcased the role of technology in enhancing customer experience, with costs around $2,000/m².

Market Analysis

The Australian retail sector is experiencing significant changes due to the rise of e-commerce and changing consumer preferences. Despite these challenges, the retail sector remains a significant contributor to the Australian economy, with retail sales reaching $326.5 billion in 2020. The retail fitout market in Australia is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.5% from 2021 to 2026, driven by the increasing demand for modern and innovative retail spaces.

Fitout Costs

The average fitout cost per square meter for retail spaces in Australia ranges from 1,500to3,000, depending on the type of fitout and location. Food and beverage fitouts typically have higher fitout costs due to the need for specialized equipment and fixtures. Fashion fitouts have lower fitout costs due to the relatively simple design requirements. Entertainment fitouts have varying fitout costs depending on the type of entertainment offered.

Key Factors Influencing Fitout Costs

Several factors influence the fitout costs of retail spaces in Australia, including:

  • Materials: The choice of materials used in the fitout can significantly impact the overall cost. High-quality materials such as marble, glass, and stainless steel can increase the fitout cost, while low-quality materials can reduce the fitout cost but may not provide the desired aesthetic or durability.
  • Labour: The cost of labor can vary depending on the location, complexity of the fitout, and availability of skilled workers. Fitout projects in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne tend to have higher labor costs due to the higher cost of living and demand for skilled workers.
  • Location: The location of the retail space can significantly impact the fitout cost. Fitout projects in prime locations such as shopping centers and high streets tend to have higher fitout costs due to the higher rent and demand for space.
  • Design: The design of the retail space can also impact the fitout cost. Complex designs with multiple levels, unique features, and specialized equipment can increase the fitout cost. Simple designs with basic fixtures and finishes can reduce the fitout cost.
Cost Components Breakdown
  • Base Building Works (45-55%)

    Structural modifications

    Services infrastructure

    Floor/wall finishes

    Ceiling systems

  • Fixtures & Fittings (30-40%)

    Custom joinery

    Lighting systems

    Display units

    Furniture

  • Professional Services (10-15%)

    Design fees

    Project management

    Engineering

    Certification

Planning Phase
  • Early contractor engagement
  • Value engineering workshops
  • Material selection optimisation
  • Services coordination
Implementation Phase
Future Outlook
  • Continued emphasis on experiential retail
  • Growing investment in technology integration
  • Increased focus on sustainability
  • Rising importance of flexibility in design
References
  • Property Council of Australia
  • Australian Retailers Association
  • Major Shopping Center Groups
  • Leading Fitout Contractors
More case studies of recent fitout projects in major Australian cities
  • Sydney: The Westfield Sydney shopping center underwent a $1.2 billion redevelopment in 2010, which included a major fitout project. The fitout cost for the project was not disclosed, but it is estimated to be in the hundreds of millions of dollars.
  • Melbourne: The Emporium Melbourne shopping center underwent a $1.2 billion redevelopment in 2014, which included a major fitout project. The fitout cost for the project was not disclosed, but it is estimated to be in the hundreds of millions of dollars.
  • Brisbane: The Queen Street Mall underwent a $100 million redevelopment in 2013, which included a major fitout project. The fitout cost for the project was not disclosed, but it is estimated to be in the tens of millions of dollars.

The fitout costs of shopping centres and retail spaces in Australia are influenced by a variety of factors, including the type of retail space, materials used, and location. As the market continues to evolve, retailers must balance cost considerations with the need to create engaging and functional retail environments. Key recommendations include investing in sustainable materials, leveraging technology for efficiency, and planning for regulatory compliance early in the project lifecycle.

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Childcare

Childcare & ELC

Turnkey Childcare planning, design and project management, construction, fitout and lifecycle maintenance.

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Civil & Environmental

Civil, infrastructure & environmental planning, design and project management, construction and lifecycle maintenance.

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Commercial Construction

Commercial building project planning, design management, construction and lifecycle maintenance.

Community & Public

Public Spaces

Community centre & public venues planning, design and project management, construction, fitout and lifecycle maintenance.

Cultural & Worship

Cultural & Worship

Place of worship & cultural centre design and project management, construction, fitout and lifecycle maintenance.

Education & Training

Schools & Training Facilities

General & specialist training facility planning, design and project management, construction and lifecycle maintenance.

Hospitality & Restaurants

Hospitality & Restaurants

Restaurant building project planning, design management, construction, fitout, refurbishment and lifecycle maintenance.

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Retail & Shopping

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