Fed Square to get first Apple global flagship in Southern Hemisphere

apple-logoTech giant Apple will open a global flagship store at Federation Square in Melbourne, with construction anticipated to begin in mid-2019.

On Wednesday, Federation Square CEO Jonathan Tribe joined John Eren, Minister for Tourism and Major Events, and Philip Dalidakis, Minister for Trade & Investment, Innovation & the Digital Economy to make the announcement which will  breathe new life into the precinct.

“The development of the site, and the anticipated increase in visitor numbers, will reinvigorate Federation Square allowing us to embark on a program of growth and regeneration ―after a successful first fifteen years it is now time to ensure Federation Square is equipped to welcome more visitors, host more meaningful civic and cultural events, and deliver an enhanced visitor experience,” said Tribe.

The project will create nearly 500 square metres of public space in Federation Square while the new building will take up less space than the Yarra building it replaces, opening up more public space in front of Federation Square’s recently announced $5.4 million screen evolution project.

Upon completion, it will be the first Apple global flagship store in the southern hemisphere.

As part of its offer, Apple will deliver a program of events including talks and classes that ‘complement the offering’ of Federation Square and its cultural tenants ACMI, Koorie Heritage Trust, and the NGV.

“Importantly, initiatives such as this global flagship store and that of the recently announced funding for the new digital experience screens are all about being relevant to diverse audiences and inspiring our ever-evolving, connected community,” said Tribe.

Federation Square’s lead architect Donald Bates and the Victorian Government architect Jill Garner have been involved in the planning and consideration of this project and have both endorsed the proposed design.

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