HARDWARE STORE EXPANSION TO CREATE 2000 JOBS

BUNNINGS Warehouse (pictured) has indicated that its $1.5 billion plan to open 85 stores nationally would create about 2000 jobs across Queensland.

The discount hardware group has commenced $39 million in works at a 5.3ha site near the Centro shopping centre in Oxenford. The structure will cover about 22,000 sqm once complete.

The store’s product range will include landscaping, home improvement, outdoor living, kitchen appliances, glass pool fencing and child play equipment.

A Bunnings spokesperson confirmed three stores are under construction across the state in undisclosed locations, one of which is speculated to be in Arundel along Brisbane Road, complementing the existing Harbour Town premises.

A further 19 new Queensland stores are in pipeline, each of which will cover about 14,000 sqm and employ more than 100 staff.

However, competitor Masters – owned by Woolworths and US-based Lowe’s – plans to dwarf Bunnings’ expansion by opening 150 stores within five years at an estimated cost of $3-4 billion.

Woolworths has confirmed that it is searching for sites on the Gold Coast.