Fans to take piece of GC2018 action home

The doors have been thrown open to Queensland’s largest-ever event merchandise store.

The Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games (GC2018) Superstore at Victoria Park at Broadbeach is the third and largest GC2018 Official Shop after outlets recently opened at the Gold Coast Airport and in Surfers Paradise.

Commonwealth Games Minister Kate Jones said the Superstore was not just to sell merchandise but was also created to engage locals in the Games experience.

“Some of the GC2018 gold, silver and bronze medals that will be awarded to the athletes will be showcased within a Royal Australian Mint activation space,” she said.

“Having them in the store offers everyone the chance to see the expertly-crafted medals up close and see just how beautiful they are and why we are all so very proud of them,” she said.

Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Corporation (GOLDOC) Chairman Peter Beattie AC, said superstores have been part of the Olympic and Commonwealth Games retail store fabric for over two decades.
 
“Since the Atlanta 1996 Olympic Games large footprint stores like this have given Games fans a memorable retail experience,” Mr Beattie said.

“The GC2018 Superstore range will include T-shirts, sweatshirts, accessories, collectables, homewares, mascot toys, the Team Australia range and many more items of memorabilia.

“There has never been a range like it in Commonwealth Games history with literally something for everyone on every shelf and rack,” he said.

GOLDOC CEO Mark Peters said the 800 square metre store showcases the biggest and most comprehensive licensing program in Commonwealth Games history.

“It is anticipated that up to 5,000 people will visit the Superstore every day during the Games with our popular mascot Borobi expected to represent more than a third of all sales,” Mr Peters said.

“Merchandise is an important revenue stream for the Games, but these unique and high quality products also give fans the chance to show their support for GC2018.

“Everyone can take a little piece of this historic moment home,” he said.

Olympic, world and Commonwealth Games swimming medallist Brooke Hanson OAM said team colours in the crowd boost the athletes.

“It’s the ultimate dream for any athlete to win gold in front of their home crowd.

“Visible home support makes a huge difference so it would be amazing for everyone in the Australian team to look into the crowds and see our supporters wearing the team colours.

“It is fantastic that fans will have such a huge range of items to choose from to get behind the athletes.

“We’re all aiming to do Australia proud,” she said.

Media contact: Jack Harbour 0419 620 447