Patagonia | Little Collins

The Verdict

Patagonia has unveiled its new flagship store in Melbourne, reviving a heritage building from 1884.

It will offer the brand’s full range of outdoor apparel and equipment, with a focus on “urban shoppers”.

Patagonia’s first and foremost mission is '‘We are in the business of saving the planet'. The drive to preserve the planet’s ecosystems flows through the entire operation, from the products made and materials used to donations to grassroots environmental groups.

The façade and lofty ground-level interiors of Carson House have been carefully restored with recycled materials, including disused boating-yard lumber, and furniture upholstered in Patagonia’s organic fabrics.

Patagonia Provisions, the company’s regenerative organic food business, is displayed with a library of Patagonia Books, including founder Yvon Chouinard’s staff-handbook-turned-best-seller Let My People Go Surfing. There will also be event space to screen films and hold talks.

This is part of the retailer’s plan to open stores that have a positive impact on the community they are located in, rather than just being a place to sell things, according to Patagonia’s country director for ANZ Dane O’Shanassy.

“We want our stores to serve the communities that they're in. They're not just places to buy stuff, we want to be able to be a bit of a hub for community activism and environmental issues.

"We’ve engaged with the people of Melbourne over many years through our strong wholesale network and web business, and environmental work.

"It’s fantastic to now open our newest flagship store and showcase our brand and products, as well as dedicate more time and energy to supporting the city’s local, grassroots activism.”

A full summer program of events happening at Patagonia is set released on Facebook, so stay tuned.

Image credit: supplied