Liquorland celebrates its 500th store transformation

Liquorland Coomera Town Centre on the Gold Coast is the 500th Liquorland store to undergo the transformation to 'Black and White' as the retailer continues its vision to become locally relevant and more approachable.

Over the past three years, more than 70% of national Liquorland stores have been updated from the traditional red and yellow colour scheme to black and white with an increased range of local wines, craft beers and boutique spirits and a more convenient store format. 

The renewal milestone comes as outgoing Coles Liquor Chief Executive Darren Blackhurst hands over the reins to former Coles Express Executive General Manager Michael Courtney, who commences in the role this week.

“We’re proud to open the doors of this 500th Liquorland transformation store and reach this important milestone in our renewal journey," said Blackhurst, who started in the role in January 2020. 

“Over the past three years, the team has worked very hard to make each new store simpler, more accessible and locally relevant, and this store in Coomera Town Centre showcases the fantastic work that the teams have done on bringing this to life," he said.

“The transformation offers our customers a more spacious layout, simpler signage with clear pricing, an expanded range and dedicated product zones that ensure every customer leaves with exactly what they’re looking for,” Blackhurst added.  

In April this year, Darren Blackhurst announced he would be stepping down as Coles Liquor Chief Executive to return home to the United Kingdom to be closer to family. 

Incoming Coles Liquor Chief Executive Michael Courtney congratulated Darren Blackhurst on his tremendous impact on the business.

“The 500th Liquorland renewal is a great testament to the transformational impact that Darren has had on the Coles Liquor business over the past three years, where he has inspired a talented team to deliver great outcomes for customers," said Courtney.

Previously Courtney led the Coles Express business for four years, delivering a winning strategy in the petrol and convenience market and overseeing a successful transition to Viva Energy. Most recently, Courtney spent the past six months in the eCommerce business, transforming Coles' customer offer.

Since launching in 1981, Liquorland has established more than 700 stores nationwide. It’s estimated the remaining 200 stores will undergo the 'Black and White' renewal by 2025.