Some of the world's biggest retailers heading to Australia

Some of the world's biggest retailers chains are heading to Australia, with speculation emerging that Japan's boutique department store Isetan, the UK's Marks & Spencer and US beauty and cosmetic house Sephora are planning to open stores in 2015. 

It is understood that in recent weeks representatives from Marks and Spencer (M&S) have been out in Australia.  M&S, through Asian marketer and distributor or global retail brands, Royal Sporting House, is believed to interested in opening up their profitable " small format" stores of about 2,500 square metres. It will include their top fashion and homeward brands. 

A source told Property Observer that they were looking at opening "multiple" stores in the major regional shopping centres.

Property Observer also understands that Sephora, Isetan and UK toy store Hamleys are all looking to get a presence in Australia. 

A source said Isetan were in "preliminary discussions at the moment" and looking for a presence in the CBDs, as well as regional shopping centres. 

Meanwhile, it is understood that representative from Hamleys were out here last week". Sources said "They have got a whole swag of potential joint venture partners."  He said Hamleys was not coming to Australia to secure 100 square metre sites, "they need 750-1000 square metres".