The Cotton On Group has made a definitive break from Geelong's Market Square shopping centre, closing its final two stores and ending a retail presence that spanned over two decades.
A Complete Departure from a Longtime Home
The global fashion retailer, which was founded in Geelong, has now permanently shut the doors of its Cotton On and Cotton On Body stores at the centre. This move follows the earlier closure of its Typo and Factorie outlets in late 2023. A company spokesperson confirmed the exit, stating the group is now focused on its other locations within the Geelong region.
This departure marks a significant shift, as the brand had been a cornerstone tenant of Market Square for more than 20 years. The closure leaves a substantial retail void in the centre's mall area.
Property Owner's Response and Future Plans
The shopping centre's owner, Newmark Capital, has acknowledged the vacancy. A representative for Newmark Capital expressed that while Cotton On's exit is noted, the company is actively pursuing new leasing opportunities for the prominent space.
"We are in advanced discussions with several potential retailers to fill the vacancy," the representative said, indicating confidence in the centre's future. They also highlighted that other Cotton On Group brands, including Supré and Ceres Life, continue to operate successfully within Market Square under different leasing arrangements.
Broader Context for Geelong's Retail Scene
This exit occurs against a backdrop of change for the Cotton On Group's footprint in its hometown. The company recently consolidated its Geelong support office staff into its new global headquarters at 105 Mercer Street. Furthermore, its stand-alone stores on the nearby Malop Street precinct remain open and trading.
The group's strategy appears to be refining its physical presence, concentrating on its flagship locations and its massive head office complex. The move away from Market Square suggests a reassessment of its traditional mall-based stores in that specific location.
For Geelong shoppers and the local business community, the closure signifies the end of an era for a homegrown success story at one of the city's familiar shopping hubs. All attention now turns to what retailer will step in to take over the significant shopfront space left behind.
