South African fashion retailer MRP will open two retail stores in Melbourne, creating more than 100 new jobs.
MRP opened its first Australian store at Melbourne Central shopping centre last night, with the second store set to open in Eastland Shopping Centre later this month.
MRP has more than 440 stores throughout Southern Africa, carrying fashion, accessories, footwear and sleepwear for women, men and kids.
MRP joins existing major international retailers such as H&M, Zara, Top Shop, Uniqlo, Muji and Williams-Sonoma, which have demonstrated their confidence in Victoria’s retail sector by opening stores in Melbourne in the past two years.
The retail sector is one of Victoria’s biggest employers, providing jobs for almost 345,000 people across the state.
Victoria’s annual retail turnover of almost $70 billion accounts for more than 20 per cent of gross state product.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Employment Jacinta Allan
“MRP’s decision to establish themselves in Victoria and is a vote of confidence in our retail sector and the Victorian economy.”
“Their new stores at Melbourne Central and Eastland will create more than 100 local jobs – another step in the Andrews Labor Government’s plan to create 100,000 jobs in Victoria.”
Quotes attributable to MRP Managing Director Nicci Lyne
“We are thrilled to be opening our doors in the heart of Melbourne.”
“Upon walking into Melbourne Central we knew we had found the prime location to begin our Australian journey.”
Quotes attributable to MRP Chief Executive Officer Stuart Bird
“As a business based in the Southern Hemisphere, we’re able to offer Australians a relevant, seasonal trend-led assortment.”
“While initially we will focus on our MRP apparel stores, there is potential to follow with our mrpHome and mrpSport divisions”.
Reviewed 19 August 2020