Adore Beauty's First South Australian Store Leads Retail Momentum

South Australian retail spending increased 2.6% year-on-year in March 2025, accelerating to an average of 3.8% growth in the three months ending February 2025.

The figures arrive as household spending across the state rose 5.2% year-on-year in August 2025, giving retailers clearer signals on where to place new stores. Adelaide's established shopping strips and centres are absorbing these shifts, with several national operators choosing suburban locations over the central business district.

Adore Beauty selected Westfield Marion for its first South Australian outlet, joining other recent arrivals such as New Balance on Rundle Mall, which opened November 28, 2025, Salomon at Burnside Village and MECCA's two-storey flagship at the same centre. Premium labels including Tiffany & Co, Zimmerman, Morrison and Georg Jensen have also moved from the Adelaide CBD to Burnside Shopping Centre.

Suburban Centres Capture New Tenants

These openings coincide with an increase in Adelaide CBD retail vacancy to 9.3% in the first half of 2025, reversing an earlier downward trend that had held since the first half of 2022. Shoppers are directing more spending toward Burnside Village and Westfield Marion, where operators can secure larger floorplates and updated amenities.

Developers are responding with 37,900 square metres of retail space currently under construction across Adelaide, scheduled for completion by the third quarter of 2026. An additional 43,700 square metres holds approved plans while 19,100 square metres sits at the submitted stage.

Next Steps for Retail Operators

Retailers tracking these figures will watch how the new space is absorbed once the 2026 completions come online. Operators already active in Burnside Village and Westfield Marion are positioned to test extended trading hours and in-store services against the latest household spending data.

This article is general information only and is not personal financial or investment advice. Consider your own circumstances and seek licensed professional advice before making financial decisions.