Australian low-price retailer Kmart is expanding its new Plan C+ store concept after an initial pilot phase.
The retailer confirmed that around 40 new stores are expected to be operating in this format by the end of June 2027.
The concept is already operating in 20 locations across Australia, forming part of the more than 300 locations Kmart operates in both Australia and New Zealand. According to Kmart, the Plan C+ concept is designed to support the customer journey, including revised store layouts, improved product presentation, enhanced service options and new technology.
This includes larger and “more intuitive” departments across key categories including womenswear, beauty and home. For womenswear in particular, this includes upgraded product coordination and outfit-led merchandising, alongside clearer navigation and improved product adjacencies.
The format also offers ‘Select & Collect’, expanded self-service checkouts and a simpler front-of-store entry and exit experience.
In the back-end, Kmart has upgraded technology and updated ways of working among store teams for efficiency, which include product availability that allows team members to help serve customers.
Kmart Group GM of property, Ben Smith, said the rollout reflects Kmart’s commitment to continually evolving its store experience to meet the changing needs of customers.
"Our customers continue to tell us they want shopping experiences that are simple, convenient and enjoyable, and Plan C+ is helping us deliver on that,” Smith said.
"The format brings together improvements to store design, service, technology and product presentation to create a better experience for customers and a more effective environment for our teams.
"What we've learned from the stores already operating in the format has been incredibly valuable. We're continuing to refine the experience and apply those learnings as we expand Plan C+ across more communities around Australia."
"Importantly, these investments help us continue delivering the great value, quality and shopping experience our customers expect from Kmart."
Kmart Group – which also includes Target – is managed and owned by Wesfarmers, the Australian conglomerate that also owns Bunnings, Officeworks and Priceline.