The itnflux of global retailers into Australia will continue over the coming years, while international brands that have already set up shop here are expected to expand into more cities, as per a new report from CBRE.

The boom in online shopping and Amazon’s entrance into the marketplace have made brick and mortar retailers a worried lot and this is forcing them to brighten up their stores and offer extensive range with competitive pricing. But according to CBRE, the real estate company, local retailers have been struggling to compete just on price and are being forced out of best locations and spaces.

Australia is an attractive place for international retailers due to healthy population and economic growth. Sales productivity of new entrants has proven that Australians are eager for new retailers, besides Australia ranks among the top performance countries for some of these global retailers who have already launched here. The Australian stores of international brands such as Zara and H&M Australia, have gained among the highest store sales performance in their global portfolio over the past three years, contends a senior research manager from CBRE.

Since 2012, most international brands that have entered the Australian market have come from Europe and most are fashion oriented. In the last five years, 44 global retailers have launched in Melbourne, 44 in Sydney and 19 in Brisbane and this will increase over the next three to five years, as per the research data.

H&M recently announced it would open regional stores in Townsville and Rockhampton as well as an online store that will back its physical presence in Australia. Uniqlo, which already has an established online presence in Australia is also expected to expand its stores in the country. Last month the popular Japanese clothing brand indicated interest in opening an outlet in New Zealand.