If you’ve wandered into a Kmart lately and thought, ‘Hang on, wasn’t the checkout over there last time?’—you’re not imagining things. Kmart is shaking things up in a big way, unveiling a fresh store layout set to change how we shop.
Whether you’re a Kmart devotee or simply popping in for the odd bargain, these changes are worth knowing, especially if you’re curious about how retail giants adapt to the next generation of shoppers.
Kmart’s latest revamp is more than just a lick of paint or a new sign out the front. The retailer is trialling a bold new store format in select locations to attract Gen Z (born between 1995 and 2009) and Alpha (born from 2010 to 2024) customers.
But don’t worry, there’s plenty in it for the rest of us, too. One of the most noticeable changes? The checkouts.
About a decade ago, Kmart controversially moved its registers to the centre of the store, hoping to improve access and reduce clutter at the exits.
Now, the checkouts are returning to the front to please those who like a more traditional shopping experience. No more wandering through aisles of homewares and toys to pay for your socks!
But the changes don’t stop at the registers. Aleks Spaseska, Kmart’s new managing director, has revealed that the front of the store will now be dedicated to fashion and beauty.
When you walk in, you’ll be greeted by rows of budget-friendly makeup, skincare, and the latest women’s apparel.
The idea is to inspire shoppers with coordinated outfits and easy access to beauty essentials, making it simpler than ever to put together a new look without breaking the bank.
Gone are the days of hunting for a matching top and skirt in different store corners. The new layout combines everything to see how pieces work together to create a complete outfit. It’s a more curated, boutique-style approach—without the boutique price tag.
If you’re after a new bike, car seat, or other bulky item, you’ll now find these products at the back of the store—or, in some cases, not on the shop floor.
Instead, Kmart is rolling out a digital ‘select and collect’ system for big-ticket items. You browse and click, and your purchase is ready for pick-up—no need to wrestle a boxed-up trampoline through the aisles.
This shift frees up valuable floor space for more clothing displays and makes the store feel less cluttered. It’s a win for anyone who’s ever tried to navigate a trolley around a stack of flat-pack furniture.
Kmart’s transformation isn’t just physical. The retailer is also ramping up its social media presence, aiming to connect with younger shoppers where they spend most of their time—online.
Expect more content showcasing the latest bargains in fashion, beauty, homewares, and cleaning products.
This strategy is already paying off. In recent years, Kmart has seen a surge in shoppers, largely thanks to viral social media posts and glowing online reviews.
In the 2024 financial year alone, Kmart Group reported a staggering $11 billion in revenue, with profits nearing $960 million. Not bad for a store once known mainly for its $2 thongs and budget kitchenware!
The new layout was first trialled at the Mount Gravatt store in Brisbane, and the results have been impressive. Customer traffic is up, and sales are stronger than ever.
Four more stores are set to roll out the new format, and if the trend continues, you can expect to see these changes in Kmart locations across the country.
Spaseska is understandably proud of the team’s achievements, saying, ‘Our purpose to make everyday living brighter has never mattered more to customers, and I look forward to this next chapter in our story.’
Of course, not everyone loves change. Some shoppers may miss the old layout or prefer browsing for bulky items in person. However, as retail continues to evolve, Kmart’s willingness to adapt could be the key to staying relevant for future generations.
Have you visited a Kmart with the new layout? What did you think—love it, loathe it, or somewhere in between? Do these changes make shopping easier, or do you prefer the old way? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
Also read: The $15 Kmart item that’s changing kitchens across Australia—and it’s easy to clean
