Australia's largest speciality nursery and baby goods retailer opened its first store in Aotearoa today, with plans to open a further nine branches nationwide.
The ASX-listed Baby Bunting operates 65 stores in Australia as well as an online market, carrying over 7000 product lines for new and expectant parents.
The company's first New Zealand store is set to open on Friday at the Albany Lifestyle Centre on Auckland's North Shore.
The 1700 sqm store will offer a wide range of products for babies and toddlers, from car seats, prams and nursery furniture to clothing, toys, high chairs and more.
Baby Bunting has an ambition to open at least 10 stores throughout New Zealand and has already established a warehouse in Auckland to support the future network plans, as well as local online order fulfilment.
Michael Pane, Baby Bunting's general manager of operations, said the new retail store will be unlike anything currently in the New Zealand market.
He said the scale of their retail offering means they can offer an extensive range of products at great value for all price points, from entry level to premium - catering to all demographics.
"Baby Bunting launched in Australia as a single store family business over 40 years ago. In that time, we have developed a comprehensive retail model which provides a wide selection of products and services to meet the needs of the infant to four-year-old market," Pane said in a statement on Friday.
"Education and safety are key areas of focus for us and we offer a professional car seat installation service at our store, as well as expert advice and hire services."
Pane said the company has plans to open at least a further nine stores in centres around the country, with the next store to open in Christchurch in the first half of 2023.
"We've established a great local team and we've established relationships with some fantastic suppliers and landlords. We look forward to extending our relationships as we grow in the New Zealand market," Pane said.
