Planning a new retail store in Melbourne is exciting, but one of the first questions most business owners ask is: “How much will my shop fit out cost?”
There is no single price that applies to every retail project. The final cost depends on the size of the premises, existing condition, design, materials, services, joinery, lighting and level of customisation.
For a useful starting point, current Melbourne industry guides place many retail shop fit-outs around $1,500–$3,000+ per square metre, although simpler projects can fall below this range and highly customised stores can exceed it. These figures should be treated as early budgeting benchmarks rather than fixed quotes.
What Affects Retail Fit Out Costs in Melbourne?
1. Size of Your Retail Space
The size of your shop is one of the biggest factors affecting the overall budget.
A larger store generally requires more:
- Flooring
- Ceiling work
- Lighting
- Electrical services
- Display fixtures
- Joinery
- Painting and finishes
However, cost per square metre does not always remain the same as the store gets larger. Larger projects may benefit from economies of scale, while complex layouts can increase costs.
2. Existing Condition of the Premises
A shop that is already fitted with suitable electrical, lighting, flooring and other services may require less work than a completely empty tenancy.
Before setting your budget, consider:
- Existing electrical infrastructure
- Plumbing
- Air conditioning
- Lighting
- Flooring
- Walls and ceilings
- Fire and safety requirements
- Accessibility requirements
The condition of the existing premises can have a significant impact on the amount of construction work required.
3. Design and Customisation
Your design choices will also influence the final investment.
A straightforward retail fit-out with standard finishes can cost considerably less than a highly customised store featuring bespoke counters, architectural features, premium finishes and detailed joinery.
Custom elements such as:
- Reception counters
- Display shelving
- Feature walls
- Built-in cabinetry
- Product displays
- Branded joinery
can add to the project cost but may also create a stronger and more memorable customer experience.
4. Materials and Finishes
Materials can make a major difference to your budget.
You may choose from standard, mid-range or premium finishes depending on your brand and target customers.
Common selections include:
- Timber and laminate finishes
- Tiles
- Vinyl or polished flooring
- Decorative wall finishes
- Glass
- Metalwork
- Feature lighting
The goal is not always to choose the most expensive materials. Instead, select finishes that provide the right balance between appearance, durability and budget.
5. Electrical, Lighting and Other Services
Retail stores often need more than just walls and flooring.
Your budget may need to include:
- Electrical installation
- Feature lighting
- General lighting
- Data and communication points
- Air conditioning
- Plumbing
- Fire services
- Security systems
These requirements can vary significantly depending on the type of retail business and the existing services within the premises.
Typical Retail Fit Out Cost Ranges
As a broad Melbourne planning guide, current published estimates commonly place retail shopfitting in the following territory:
| Fit-Out Level | Indicative Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic | Around $1,000–$1,500/m² |
| Standard | Around $1,500–$2,000/m² |
| Premium | $2,000–$3,000+/m² |
These are indicative figures only, not fixed MEA Shopfitting prices. Project requirements, site conditions, specifications and approvals can significantly change the final cost.
For example, a 100 m² store could have a very different budget depending on whether you are creating a simple retail space or a premium, highly customised environment.
How to Create a Realistic Shop Fit Out Budget
Before starting construction, divide your budget into clear categories.
Design & Planning
Allow for concept development, drawings, measurements and project planning.
Construction
Consider demolition, walls, ceilings, flooring, painting and other building work.
Joinery & Fixtures
Include counters, shelving, cabinetry, displays and other custom-built elements.
Electrical & Lighting
Budget for power points, lighting, feature lighting and required electrical upgrades.
Services
Consider plumbing, air conditioning, fire services and other building services where applicable.
Contingency
Set aside a contingency amount for unexpected site conditions or changes.
A detailed scope and itemised quotation can help you understand exactly where your money is going before construction begins.
Ways to Control Your Shop Fit Out Costs
A well-managed project does not necessarily mean choosing the cheapest materials.
Instead:
Plan early
Changes made during construction can increase costs and cause delays.
Prioritise what customers see
Invest more in key customer-facing areas such as the entrance, counter and product displays.
Choose durable materials
Low-cost materials that need frequent replacement may cost more in the long term.
Avoid unnecessary changes
A clear design and scope can reduce variations during construction.
Work with an experienced fit-out team
A professional team can help coordinate design, construction, trades and project requirements.
Why Choose MEA Shopfitting?
At MEA Shopfitting, we help Melbourne businesses turn commercial spaces into functional, professional environments designed around their brand and customers.
Our services can include:
- Retail shop fit-outs
- Commercial fit-outs
- Office fit-outs
- Café and hospitality fit-outs
- Custom joinery
- Interior transformations
From the initial concept through to completion, our focus is on quality workmanship, practical design and efficient project delivery.
FAQs
How much does a retail shop fit-out cost in Melbourne?
There is no fixed price because every project is different. Current industry guides commonly place many Melbourne retail fit-outs around $1,500–$3,000+ per m², depending on the specification and complexity.
What is included in a shop fit-out?
Depending on the project, a fit-out may include design, demolition, walls, ceilings, flooring, painting, electrical work, lighting, joinery, fixtures and other building services.
How can I reduce my shop fit-out costs?
Start planning early, establish a clear scope, prioritise essential features and select materials that balance quality, durability and price.
Does the condition of my existing shop affect the cost?
Yes. Existing electrical, plumbing, flooring, ceilings, air conditioning and other services can affect how much additional work is required.
Should I get a fixed quotation before starting?
Yes. A detailed quotation based on your actual site, drawings, specifications and requirements gives you a much clearer understanding of the expected investment.
How long does a retail shop fit-out take?
The timeframe depends on the size, complexity, approvals, materials and site conditions. A detailed project schedule should be established before construction begins.
Summary
A retail shop fit-out is an investment in how customers experience your business. While $1,500–$3,000+ per m² can be used as a broad starting benchmark for Melbourne retail fit-outs, your actual cost will depend on your premises, design, materials, services and level of customisation.
The best approach is to establish your requirements early, create a realistic budget and obtain a detailed quotation before construction starts.
Planning a retail shop fit-out in Melbourne?
MEA Shopfitting
Phone: 0426 380 404
Email: meashopfitting@gmail.com
Website: meashopfitting.com.au
Let’s build a retail space that works for your business.
