Minimalist Japanese lifestyle brand Standard Products by DAISO is packing its neutral-toned bags and heading south, with new stores set to land in Melbourne and Canberra before the end of 2025.

The move follows a cracking debut in December 2024 at Westfield Parramatta, where shoppers fell hard for the brand’s mix of clean design, affordable prices and everyday practicality, proving you don’t need to drop big bucks to get your home looking sharp.

From Tokyo to three Aussie states

Born in Tokyo’s buzzing Shibuya district in 2021, Standard Products has grown to more than 180 stores worldwide, spanning Japan, Singapore, Taiwan, the US, New Zealand, and now, Australia.

Run by DAISO INDUSTRIES CO., LTD., the concept runs on a simple idea: “a little bit better is always really nice”. That translates to a carefully picked range of homewares, kitchen gear, travel bits, stationery and lifestyle essentials that look good and work hard.

The brand delivers plenty of bang for buck and has scooped up multiple Good Design Awards, including 2024 wins for its Facial Cleansing Soap and Fluffy Towel.

Why Aussies are loving it

When Parramatta’s flagship opened last year, DAISO tested a ‘two for one’ setup, pairing its famous $3.30 concept with a Standard Products section. Shoppers were into it from day dot, loading up on timber spoons, glassware and stainless steel drink bottles, all in the brand’s signature neutral palette.

A DAISO spokesperson says Sydney’s reaction sealed the deal.

“Our customers have spoken, and we are excited to now bring our brand into Melbourne and Canberra.”

Where you’ll find them

The new digs are locked in:

Midtown Plaza, Melbourne CBD – 300m² Standard Products store alongside a 660m² DAISO.

Westfield Belconnen, Canberra – 305m² Standard Products store next to a 418m² DAISO.

Both stores will stock around 2,000 original products, many made in Japan, with a focus on sustainable materials like wood, glass and stainless steel. So you can also feel smug about your shopping choices.

A threat to small business?

So as a small business owners, why should you care? Standard Products’ success shows Aussies will open their wallets for quality, as long as the price tag plays nice. It’s also a masterclass in testing the waters before going big: launch small, listen to your customers, then scale.

And if your business leans into interiors, gifting or eco-friendly goods, take a leaf out of Standard Products’ book: keep your range tight and your brand story clear.

If the Parramatta store’s anything to go by, expect opening day crowds at the new locations, and maybe a run on those award-winning fluffy towels.

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