Kmart has built an empire on this highly relatable shopping experience, but the environment where we hunt for these everyday bargains is about to undergo a significant transformation.
The retail giant has announced a massive overhaul of its Aussie stores, promising a sleeker, simpler, and more convenient design for shoppers.
Dubbed the “Plan C+” format, this new store layout is already rolling out across the country. Management plans to upgrade approximately 40 stores by the end of June 2027. If the initial images and details are anything to go by, fans of the affordable retailer are in for a thoroughly modernised shopping trip.
The End of the Centre Checkout
Perhaps the most universally celebrated change coming to Kmart is the relocation of cash registers.
Several years ago, the retailer made the controversial decision to move its checkouts to the exact centre of the store. The layout required shoppers to navigate through various departments to pay, before presenting a receipt to an attendant at the front doors to exit.
Under the new Plan C+ design, the centre registers are officially a thing of the past (thankfully). Kmart is introducing a much simpler front-of-store entry and exit experience. Customers will no longer have to journey to the middle of the shop floor to finalise their purchases. Instead, the redesigned format will rely heavily on expanded self-service checkouts and dedicated spaces for the highly popular “Select & Collect” service, ensuring you can grab your items and get on with your day with minimal friction.
Is Your Local Store Getting the Upgrade?
The rollout is already underway, using insights gathered from initial test locations to refine the experience. If you are eager to see the new Plan C+ layout in person, here are the Australian stores confirmed for the first wave of upgrades:
- New South Wales: Penrith, Waratah, Campbelltown, Marrickville, Blacktown, Ashfield, Charlestown, Sylvania
- Victoria: Chirnside Park, Southland, Frankston, Eastland, Broadmeadows, Keysborough, Mildura
- Queensland: Maroochydore, North Lakes, Loganholme, Upper Mount Gravatt
- Western Australia: Rockingham
- South Australia: Port Noarlunga
Whether you are hunting for a budget-friendly home makeover or just popping in for the essentials, Kmart’s new layout is determined to make your next visit smoother than ever.
