Retail giant’s back in bigger premises

THREE months after its longstanding Brisbane St store closed for good, a retail giant’s new Hobart premises are nearing completion, with the upgraded store already partially open.

It was revealed late last year that furniture and homeware retailer Freedom had outgrown its former home at 80 Brisbane St and was on the lookout for a suitable tenancy.

The retailer found it at 174 Elizabeth St, which had been occupied by Launcestonbased retailer The Living Room’s second store.

The Russells, who founded The Living Room about two decades ago, after Phil Russell learnt the trade under Launceston icon Mort Douglas, expanded their online offerings and their physical store at Launceston’s Cameron St to compensate for handing over the keys to Freedom.

“If they hadn’t have taken our site over, they wouldn’t be in our state,” Mr Russell previously told the Mercury.

“Our market needs Freedom, our state needs Freedom. If we didn’t have them, our customer base would go to Melbourne.”

Now, Freedom spokeswoman Lexi Kentmann has provided an update on the new store’s progress, revealing that it partially opened on December 20 last year.

“We’re thrilled that the new Freedom Elizabeth St store has partially opened and commenced trade,” Ms Kentmann said.

“In February, the lower floor is scheduled to fully open. We are excited to be celebrating this milestone.

“Events are being planned for the Hobart community to enjoy in the following weeks with details to come.”

The additional level means Freedom now has about 25 per cent more showroom space.

“The new Freedom store was chosen for its unique and convenient location, size and street presence,” Ms Kentmann said.

“With a showroom that’s approximately 25 per cent bigger (370sq m) and additional level, it significantly increased our footprint, giving us the opportunity to increase our product ranging and create a fresh and immersive space for Tasmanians to shop for their homes with an expanded Freedom range.”

Ms Kentmann said familiar faces could be expected at the new store.

“Our team were all offered transfers to the new store location,” she said.

“Happily, longstanding members chose to stay with us, and many staff accepted promotions.

“We’re also excited to be continuing to recruit local talent to build the team further and join us at Freedom for this next growth period.” alex.treacy@news.com.au