Overview
Those who keep their eyes on printed matter have probably heard the rumours. Now the news is official, as Melbourne Central is getting its very own Books Kinokuniya. For the uninitiated, this bookstore chain is Japan's largest, now offering 80 locations around the globe. So what makes it different? More than just a mazy destination to find your next paperback, these bustling stores feature vast collections of Japanese manga, graphic novels and translated fiction.
Yet depending on the size of the store, Books Kinokuniya locations usually feature dedicated sections for stationery and literary merch, as well as theatres, art galleries and spaces for arts and crafts. And with the chain opening its second location in Sydney recently — now in Chatswood and the CBD — it's not surprising that Melburnian booklovers have been waiting with bated breath for a local spot to arrive.
"As a UNESCO City of Literature, we believe Melbourne's creative and literary culture aligns deeply with Kinokuniya's identity. As we explored opportunities in Victoria, Melbourne Central stood out in particular because of its unique and easily accessible location, and its strong connection with younger audiences and contemporary lifestyle," says Satoshi Yada, Managing Director of Books Kinokuniya Australia.
To begin, the global retailer will establish a temporary concept store on level two by the end of August, giving fans a taste of what's to come. Then, scheduled to open in the first half of 2028, a fully-fledged permanent flagship store will launch as part of a large-scale $170-million Melbourne Central expansion. For precocious readers, it will be the first bookshop in the shopping centre since Borders closed 15 years ago.
Guided by The GPT Group, this landmark redevelopment is more than just a sidenote, with the project delivering a major new dining, entertainment and retail offering. Adding approximately 7,800 square metres of space to levels three and four, Books Kinokuniya will take up a central position. However, visitors can expect to encounter ten new food retailers, leading to the CBD centre being reimagined with extended trading hours — 18 hours a day, seven days a week.
"The introduction of Melbourne's first flagship Books Kinokuniya store brings a unique point of difference to the city's retail landscape," says Chris Barnett, Head of Retail at The GPT Group. "Combined with premium entertainment and dining experiences, the development will unlock significant value and create an even more compelling destination for visitors to meet, shop, dine and play in the heart of the city."
Books Kinokuniya's concept store is expected to open by the end of August, with a permanent flagship scheduled to launch in the first half of 2028. Head to the website for more information.
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Renders: The GPT Group.