At a time when most businesses are rationalizing store count and easing back into retail trade in Melbourne, QBD Books has announced the launch of two new stores in the city.

The move will go some way in creating 70 new jobs in Victoria, the business said, with 20 going for the two new stores at Melbourne Emporium and Chadstone Shopping Centre, as well as a further 50 across QBD Book’s other 15 stores in the state.

“We are very pleased that we have been able to expand our footprint in Melbourne,” QBD CEO Nicholas Croydon said.

“It’s been a trying time for some of our customers who we are keen to welcome back in person. We are also looking forward to servicing new customers in these additional locations and introducing them to our exciting range of products.”

The new stores will include the recently acquired Australia Geographic’s range, and will be trading under strict Covid-19 guidelines.

Australian Geographic managing director Jo Runciman previously told Inside Retail the brand has always preferred to be available in bricks-and-mortar, and were waiting for the right partner after the brand ended its three-year licensing agreement with The Co-Op. That partner was QBD.

“We are very excited about our return to retail with our partnership with QBD,” Runciman said.

“The new Australian Geographic kiosks and in-store presence will enable us to reach more customers and expand the reach of the brand across Australia.”