Tattarang unveils maiden Queensland Akubra store
Andrew and Nicola Forrest’s investment vehicle, the new owner of Akubra, has chosen the heart of Brisbane’s CBD for that group’s maiden Queensland store.
Following a swank fit out, the manufacturer, which turns 150 next year, has hung its hat at a c140 square metre space, 162 Edward Street.
A launch this week featured country music singer and career-long Akubra wearer, Lee Kernaghan.
It is the brand’s second outlet; it also has a store at Kempsey, 40 kilometres north of Port Macquarie, in New South Wales.
Chesters Real Estate brokered the Brisbane deal.
Akubra hangs its hat in Queensland
Tattarang acquired Akubra for an undisclosed price speculated to be over $100 million in late 2023.
More brick and mortar stores are planned.
“We are incredibly proud to open this new store in Queensland, preserving and building upon the legacy of Akubra,” Mr Forrest said.
“Akubra has been ingrained in the fabric of Australian families for generations, and I’m proud that more people will have the opportunity to experience this great Australian-made product,” he added (story continues below).
“What better way to celebrate the outback in Brisbane than with a reunion of the legendary Lee Kernaghan and one of Australia’s most iconic brands, Akubra,” according to the executive.
Ms Forrest added “expanding Akubra’s presence across Australia is not just about growing the brand—it’s about investing in the future of Australian craftsmanship”.
Akubra chief executive officer Natalie Culina said “this marks our first-ever branded store experience, and choosing Queensland for our debut was a natural decision – it’s where our community is strongest”.
“Following the incredible success of the reopening of our Kempsey flagship store, we saw an opportunity to expand our retail presence in a way that brings the true essence of Akubra to life,” according to the executive.
“This isn’t just a store—it’s an immersive celebration of Australian heritage, craftsmanship, and the iconic handcrafted hats that have become woven into our national identity,” she added.
The property is around the corner from the Hermes store which one of its backers, The Hour Glass, acquired for $82m from Dexus in late 2022.
The deal comes a month since we reported fast growing reusable cup maker Frank Green opened its maiden store, in Melbourne’s south east.
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