In a first for Melbourne’s CBD, retail trading hours have been extended until 9pm every night in the lead up to Christmas, giving consumers an extra 54 hours of shopping time.

QV Melbourne, The Strand Melbourne, Melbourne Central, Emporium Melbourne, H&M at Melbourne’s GPO, and department stores Myer and David Jones will all extend trading hours to 9pm throughout December and until midnight on December 19.

The combined precinct is in the two city blocks from La Trobe St to Bourke St and bordered by Elizabeth and Swanston Streets.

This year also marks the first Christmas for international flagship, H&M, at Melbourne’s GPO, and Emporium Melbourne which officially opened its doors in August.

The Strand Melbourne, which underwent a major refurbishment earlier in the year, is showcasing several new stores including H&M sister brand, Cos.

The Lord Mayor, Robert Doyle, said  the unified approach from retailers to further extend trading hours is a win win for everyone this holiday season.

“Retailers are changing their practices to accommodate their customers’ needs and desires,” the Lord Mayor said.

“The announcement today that 1000 city shops will be open until 9pm in the lead up to Christmas provides people with greater choice and flexibility about when and how they shop.

Emporium Melbourne centre manager, Steve Edgerton, said through combining efforts, retailers were providing a really strong offering to Victorians this Christmas.

“In the past year, Melbourne CBD has transformed into the premier retail destination with the introduction of several international flagships like H&M at Melbourne’s GPO and Uniqlo at Emporium Melbourne, first to market luxury brands and contemporary new dining offerings,” Edgerton said.