Brand New Co-op Retail Concept for King Street

Lendlease, the developer behind Brisbane Showgrounds has unveiled plans for a Brisbane-first creative community retail concept known as Kings Co-op.

The facility which is to be located at the site of the well known Sugar building and Dairy Industry Hall is part of a three stage $2.9 billion 15 year regeneration project at Brisbane Showgrounds.

The design of the new facility will encapsulate the traditions of the Showgrounds by utilising existing architecture and landscape and using reclaimed materials from warehouses and pavilions within the Showgrounds precinct.

A co-op is a cooperate association of businesses that voluntarily manage and operate a community space, service or in this case community retail area.

The primary functions of the Kings Co-op will be:

• A destinational food and beverage concept
• Studio spaces for creative industries
• Childcare
• Health and Wellbeing

Lendlease Project Director Andrew Hay said the project is a lot more than just retail and commercial tenancies.

“Kings Co-op will breathe new life into some of the most-loved RNA historic buildings.  These are special meeting places that have showcased Queensland urban and regional best for many centuries and will continue to do so in the digital and innovation era.

“Brisbane Showgrounds holds a special place in the hearts of the Queensland community and we are excited to shape outcomes for our city with leading lifestyle offerings such as the Co-op.”

RNA Chief Executive Brendan Christou said this will be an anchor precinct for the Brisbane Showgrounds and another wonderful example of the collaboration between the RNA and Lendlease.

“Kings Co-op will provide not just another great facility for Ekka visitors but provide year round services and amenities to our growing Showgrounds community.

“We are now in our sixth year of the regeneration project and each stage reflects our goals of transforming the Showgrounds into a year round world class destination and lifestyle precinct while importantly ensuring the Ekka remains here forever.

“King Co-op will also importantly promote and encourage development of food produce, arts, culture and above all, community spirit – which is part of the RNA’s charter since 1875.”

Construction on the Kings Co-op is expected to be completed in July 2017.