Retail Sector Encounters Significant Headwinds on the Gold Coast This Year

Gold Coast retail outlets recorded an 11 percent decline in same-store sales through the first half of 2026, according to internal figures compiled by the Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce.

The drop coincides with continued pressure from low-cost overseas platforms and elevated local expenses that have squeezed margins for independent operators. Shop owners say the combination has forced some to cut staff hours or delay planned upgrades.

Overseas Platforms Add Pressure

Merchants along Cavill Avenue in Surfers Paradise report losing customers to direct imports that undercut local pricing on clothing and home goods. One store owner on the strip said foot traffic has fallen noticeably since the start of the year, with weekend crowds thinner than in 2025.

Further south, operators inside Pacific Fair shopping centre in Broadbeach face the same pattern. Several fashion and gift retailers there have reduced floor space or shifted more stock online to offset slower walk-in trade.

The Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce survey of 180 members, completed in late June, showed average inventory costs up 9 percent year on year because of higher freight charges and currency movements.

Next Steps for Operators

Businesses are now reviewing supplier contracts and exploring joint marketing campaigns through the local chamber to highlight in-store experiences that online sellers cannot match. Several owners on Cavill Avenue plan to test extended trading hours into the July school holidays in an attempt to lift revenue before the next quarter results are tallied.

Those moves will be watched closely by the chamber, which meets again on 22 July to discuss whether additional support programs are needed for members facing continued margin pressure.