Transcript

International clothing brand is opening its global global flagship store in the heart of Melbourne. Rod and Gun has moved into the historic GJ Coles building on Little Collins Street and it's confident the four story experience will pay off. Ollie Haig has this report. This is shopping where fashion collides with flavour. It's about, you know, really elevating that customer experience and, you know, bringing that human connection back to retail. New Zealand brand Rod and Gun is opening its global flagship store on Little Collins Street at the back of the historic GJ Coles building, next door to the recently completed Mecca HQ. What we've got behind us here is the original Coles branding. There's a retail space, seller and cafeteria, while a restaurant and members. Are under construction 4 levels of true retail therapy. So about 30% of this product here is New Zealand, another 30% is Australia, and then we pepper the rest of the program with product from around the world. It wouldn't be a nod to Melbourne without an incredible food offering. This is what you can get in the cafeteria downstairs there's Vil tornado beef cheek cannelloni and an olive arancini ball. So we better give it a go. Michelin star chef and Kiwi Matt Lambert is behind the menu. Well, you know, you always want to have the element of surprise, so when people come in I'm sure it'll be somewhat unexpected and then they'll walk away pleasantly surprised and very happy about it. It's a bold investment that comes amid A challenging few years for bricks and mortar retail. Still, 80% of shopping is done in store and so it's really critical that Australian retailers deliver those. Experiences Big gamble by rod and gun Look, we're confident in Melbourne. It's mixing the discipline of fashion and food and beverage. The doors will open this Friday. Ollie Hague 9 News.