[ Screenshot image taken from Vogue.com.au ]
Aussie beauty lovers will be thrilled to hear this news published April 8, 2014 on the Australian Financial Review. ^_^ (Vogue Australia has also reiterated this same news sourced from the AFR in today's online article).
I know I am, and however they get here whether partnering up with department stores or as a standalone, I'm kind of hoping this giant beauty retailer will go it alone here with the hope of increasing retail competition. I think it's high time we get these ridiculous prices lowered, samples, more GWPs, more brands, and better service around here! Hello? I need help (I'm standing right in front of you ... for the last fifteen minutes(!)) Oh, and can I get a refund if the product doesn't work out?
According to the AFR:
"It is looking for sites in high-profile locations such as George Street and Pitt Street in Sydney, and is believed to be in talks with Westfield. Citigroup believes there is scope for about 25 stores."
I cannot wait! Fingers and toes crossed it will all eventuate. >_< And, perhaps then, it would also make sense that Sephora online stores will also be made available to Australians.
What are your thoughts, peeps Down Under? Are you excited or what?!
I am THRILLED to hear this! As much as I hope otherwise, I think the prices will be much of the same (~double US price, especially as the AUD declines) but at the very least, I hope the range is extensive. I'm also curious how this will effect Mecca's market position, either they stock more niche brands or they collude with prices?
ReplyDeleteHmmmm! x
Yes definitely will cause a bit of a stir in Australian retail in terms of competition. Given Sephora do have the points system which reward loyal customers, hold VIB events and friends and family sales, etc. Mecca and others need to do more if they're not going to choose to bring prices down. I find it hard enough to get Mecca for instance, to return my phone calls (I *ALWAYS* get the message box! Grrr), get face-to-face service (coz there's not enough staff); use privileges they *advertise* that beauty loop level 3 holders are entitled to (e.g., missed birthday gift. I always get the "sorry we are still trying to sort out the kinks in the process" excuse when its been around for a couple of years!) and what not that they're not doing much to make me want to shop there - esp. at premium prices!
DeleteWhatever the excuse for keeping prices up, it won't stop customers who hold the cash to go where it's cheaper and better service. Mecca surely has to look at addressing those two key factors? More niche brands? I'm not too sure that's going to cut it IMO as most of them can be gotten overseas online. Getting their beauty loop working properly for starters would be nice! LOL. But to be honest, I'd rather be rewarded with some sort of discount compared with a free makeover. You have to try before you buy anyway which doesn't (and shouldn't) cost anything so not sure I'm really being rewarded from a free makeover as such.
Anyway, it's going to be great to have Sephora here - even if to just be able to see, touch and feel more products!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Karima. :) x