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Google Pixel 5 Launch

Technology

Kevin Smith

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October 9, 2020

A few days ago (sorry for the delay in getting this out), Google held its annual Launch Night to unveil some tasty new products about to hit the market later this year. Normally we see a new Pixel Phone, however this time we saw that plus some new products.

Google revealed the new Pixel 5 alongside the Pixel 4A 5G, Google Nest Audio and a new Chromecast with Google TV embedded. Unfortunately this year, there was no Pixel 5 XL which was a bit of a disappointment to those wanting larger phones.

The Pixel 5 has definately got people talking. Its somewhat of an upgrade to the Pixel 4 but in other ways a downgrade according to a few experts like TechRadar. Lets get into the Pixel 5 now so you can make your mind up!

The Pixel 5 is set to hit shelves from October 15th 2020. Pricing is what you would expect from Google $699US, £599 or $999AUD. The phone will come in only two colours that have some odd names. Sorta Sage (a green colour) and Just Black (yep…its Black!). The body of the phone is made from recycled aluminum, which is notable as most phones on the market have a glass or plastic back.

The phone is IPX8 water-resistant, weights only 151 grams and has dimensions of 144.7 x 70.4 x 8mm. The Pixel 5 comes with a 6″ Full HD Display with a resolution of 1080 x 2340, which is 432 pixels per inch. Its an always on display along with being an OLED panel. While the phone doesnt have 120hz refresh rate like some of the more high-end iPhones & Galaxy Phones, Google has gone with a 90hz refresh rate to keep it nice and smooth and fast. Charging is done via USB-C port at the bottom and the 3.5mm headphone jack has gone from this model as most phones are heading down the wireless headphones path.

One feature missing from the Pixel 5 is the 3D Face Unlock that was housed in the top bezel on the Pixel 4. Google has opted for the simple fingerprint scanner on the rear of the phone. The Camera on this model features a 12.2MP dual-pixel shooter along with a 16MP ultra-wide shooter. This replaces the telephoto shooter on the Pixel 4. Google’s impressive Night Sight & Portrait Modes return.

There’s 8GB of RAM in the phone along with 128GB storage. No microSD support on this one and Google hasnt announced any plans for more storage. A 4,080mAh battery powering the phone in which Google claims will last a full day from a single charge is a bit of an upgrade from the Pixel 4.

So Google Fans, let us know what you think of this phone? Will you upgrade you’re current one or wait for something out?

PUMA RS-DREAMER Performance Review

Sneakers

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October 8, 2020

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Puma basketball has been experiencing a resurgence of sorts. The last two years brought hoopers some memorable performance on court kicks from the company with the leaping cat logo. They started us off with the Puma Clyde Court Disrupt and followed up with the fan favourite Puma Clyde Hardwood. The man responsible for masterfully combining Puma’s heritage DNA with the lastest RS (Running System) is Puma Hoops head designer Jeremy Sallee. Check out his sketches and current projects at his instagram account @jeremy.sallee .

Since then Puma hoops hasn’t looked back and it’s latest offering in collaboration with hiphop legend J.Cole — the Puma RS-Dreamer looks to be another street and on-court banger. Spotted in late 2019 on J.Cole’s feet during, the RS-Dreamer kept the online sneaker community abuzz for months until it finally made its official debut on the feet of NBA players Kyle Kuzma and Marcus Smart during the NBA 2020 bubble in Orlando.

We were fortunate enough to get our hands on the sold-out RS-Dreamer x Super Mario 64 collab and give it a proper run on court. Check out our review!

FIT: 4/5

The uppers are made up of a combination of breathable textile mesh, suede and synthetic leather. A unique lockdown feature of the RS-Dreamer is the horizontal cord that runs along one end of the midfoot, heel and the other side. It’s meant to combine with the present conventional lacing system to pull your heel in further for a complete lockdown. Suede panels are also strategically placed on both sides of the forefoot, providing containment during quick movements and stops. We found this to be very impressive for a mid to low top ball shoe. They fit true to size.

CUSHIONING: 3/5

A combination of ProFoam and RS Foam is the primary setup used for cushioning. Despite the blocky midsole, on court feel is very excellent. Perfect for guards and small forwards. However, we did find the responsiveness of the set-up quite lacking. If we have any gripe with this sneaker it was this. Don’t get us wrong. It does its job, but perhaps this is something Puma Hoops can improve upon its next basketball performance release.

TRACTION: 4/5

A reliable tough and durable solid rubber compound was used for the outer sole. A unique feather design was used to create the traction threads that runs upwards in the forefoot medial area. They provide a very stable push-off base for quick lateral explosions. They did quite an excellent job of gripping both hardwood and concrete surfaces.

LOOKS: 5/5

This is were the RS-Dreamer earns its stripes and perhaps its place in the top ten sneaker releases of 2020. It’s been ages since the top 2 brands have come up with a certified head-turner ball kicks. It’s no wonder the RS-Dreamer has been constantly selling out during release day. From the inconspicuous form stripe on the midsole, the fun hits of 3M, the feather traction down to the other dope colorways that have come out, they are indeed a certified dope sneaker. Puma Hoops and J.Cole did an amazing job with the sleek and modern design of the sneaker all the while paying homage to its roots.

OVERALL: 4/5

Puma just needs to get back to the lab and improve their cushioning formula and we guarantee the RS-Dreamer will be in the conversation for the top basketball performance sneaker of the year. Coming in at $170 AUD, the price is definitely on point. The design element and versatility is head and shoulders on what’s currently out there. And with more fire colorways coming, the RS-Dreamer is set to be a staple street and court wear.

Keep checking puma.com.au and footlocker.com.au for restocks and new releases!

New Balance ‘Urban Islander’ Collection

Jay Mijares

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October 7, 2020

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Explore the latest New Balance ‘Urban Islander’ Collection by SBTG and Limited Edt. The capsule collection marks New Balance’s first-of-its-kind collaboration with two of Singapore’s most formidable streetwear authorities that have revolutionised and shaped the sneaker subculture, both locally and regionally. Where tropical fun meets urban grit, the ‘Urban Islander’ Collection embodies the free-spirited nature of world-renowned Singapore streetwear designer, Mark Ong, who goes by the moniker Mr Sabotage, and the tenacity of leading local niche sneaker boutique, Limited Edt.

Defined as an inhabitant of our sunny island with a deep interest in style, music, art and subculture, the ‘Urban Islander’ is highly creative and makes playgrounds out of the streets and paths less travelled. The concept also epitomises the contrast between Singapore being an urban city that is at the same time, the perfect tropical beach getaway.

“The Urban Islander collection is inspired by our beautiful country, which is both a metropolitan city and a tropical island. I wanted to transfer the unique feelings and impressions from the opposite spectrums onto this collaborative project, hence the name Urban Islander.”, said Mark Ong, founder of SBTG.

Headlined by the New Balance 327 sneakers and 900 sandals, the ‘Urban Islander’ Collection is the re-imagination of New Balance’s iconic footwear through the eyes of Singapore’s OG sneaker artist. Having designed for the likes of American musician, Mike Shinoda, and basketball legend, Kobe Bryant, the collection stays true to Mark’s signature military and vintage style, which sets the tone and elevates the identity of the ‘Urban Islander’.

The flagship 327 sneakers is a re-invented classic, with its distinguished silhouette inspired by the New Balance 320, the most sought-after running shoes of the 1970s. The lightweight upper makes the 327 extremely comfortable for all-day wear, cementing its position as the ultimate athleisure shoe. The soft EVA midsole provides lightweight cushioning with a grippy rubber tread for traction that keeps ‘Urban Islanders’ grounded on the streets.

Its open-toed counterpart, the 900 sandals, is perfect for those on-the-go with its cushy yet featherweight VersaLite midsole technology and NB Comfort insert. With a BOA closure system for quick fit adjustments, this multi-strap sandals will get you moving in no time. Splashed with motifs inspired by our urban island, this summer essential is up for any adventure, be it treading the urban jungle or indulging in that fun getaway to the island beach.

The ‘Urban Islander’ Collection also comprises of other merchandise including shirts, towels and a tote bag in summer-inspired motifs, camo prints and bold colours that complete the look, character and experience of an ‘Urban Islander’.

“Mark and I go back a long way – we’ve charted our individual paths, but are intrinsically linked in our goals, which are to always do what we love, and shine some light on our tiny island to the rest of the world. Now, we finally get to team up for New Balance – a brand that is close to our hearts and doing great things. This is our most ambitious project thus far, in terms of the scope and collection of products, so I’m super excited to unveil this collection not just to Singapore, but also to a global audience.”, says Mandeep Chopra, founder of Limited Edt.

The New Balance ‘Urban Islander’ Collection by SBTG and Limited Edt. includes the 327 sneakers (S$189), 900 sandals with socks (S$159), a shirt in two colourways (S$89), a tote bag (S$79), and a towel in three colourways (S$39). Available exclusively at Limited Edt CHAMBER, urbanislander.limitededt.com and sbtgsurplus.com from the 15th of October.

The Kickz Stand’s Top Hit List #29

Sneakers

Derrick Narciso

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October 5, 2020

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“I’ve been collecting on and off since 1990.

I started off with OG Jordan’s, for on and off the court, then I moved around a bit and didn’t get back into collecting until the late 2000’s to early 2010’s.

The blue Jordan 1’s and IV’s in this pic were chosen based purely on the mosaic tiles in our laundry renovation. I thought all of the different shades of blue and white would be a complimentary background for the different pairs I have in my collection.”

—@kickheadsneaks

Jordan 4 Retro x @unionlosangeles
‘Off Noir’
@natejrawlings

Puma RS-Dreamer x @realcoleworld
‘Super Mario 64’
@b3nni801

Saucony Shadow 5000 x @afewstore
‘Time & Space’
@melburn_snkrs

Jordan 5 Retro
‘Fire Red Black Tongue’
@malishoez1

Jordan 1 Retro High
‘Court Purple’
@mugsymag

Jordan 5 Retro SE
‘Oregon’
@matthewgoodwin_

Nike SB Dunk Low
‘J-Pack Chicago’
@kickinitwithgee

Jordan 11 Retro
‘Heiress Night Maroon’
@fishnkicks_

Follow us on IG @thekickzstand and keep using #thekickzstand and #itsmorethanjustsneakers to be featured in our next top hit list!

Novelship Expanding in Australia

Sneakers

Jay Mijares

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October 3, 2020

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After 18 months of explosive growth, Novelship – Southeast Asia’s largest online marketplace for authentic sneakers and streetwear – is expanding in Australia this month.

Originally founded in 2018, Novelship has since grown to become the region’s leading online marketplace for consumers to buy and sell authentic sneakers and streetwear from the world’s most sought-after brands including Air Jordan, adidas Yeezy, Supreme and more. With over 20,000 products in stock, buyer’s have a wide array of options to select and show off.

The expansion to Australia came during a defining moment in e-commerce, as an increasing number of customers convert from offline to online shopping due to COVID-19. Australia is not an exception; as data published by Deloitte indicates Australia Post has seen an additional $2.4 billion in e-commerce related revenue compared to the same period last year.

How to Buy Now or Make Offer on Novelship

When discussing expansion plans into Australia, Novelship’s CEO and Founder, Richard Xia, had to say, “Australia is a market we’ve had our eyes on for a long time now, and our market data indicates there’s a thriving sneaker and streetwear culture with few reliable local options. We think this is a great opportunity for us to provide locals with the products and services they deserve.”

Unlike other competitors, Novelship has been multi-market from the beginning, adopting a “hyper-local” approach to market expansion – focused on serving each diverse region by providing them with the best prices, largest stock count, affordable shipping rates, and five-star customer service.

Australians can expect to pay less for the sneakers and streetwear they love when shopping on Novelship. Furthermore, shipping generally takes less than a week after the product has been successfully authenticated and processed for delivery for the buyers. Postage cost starts under $25.

How to Sell or Make List on Novelship

Beyond discounts of over $100, buyers and sellers alike can rest assured that every single product traded through Novelship undergoes a rigorous authentication and quality assurance process to identify low quality and/or fake sneakers. Sellers attempting to peddle fakes on the platform receive financial penalties and repeat offenders are barred from selling online.

Find Novelship online at novelship.com, or check out their Instagram @novelship.

‘Kayumanggi’ Official Music Video

Music

Jay Mijares

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October 3, 2020

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Check out the official music video of ‘Kayumanggi’ from Jo Koy‘s Netflix special ‘In His Elements’.

‘Kayumanggi’ is a tagalog word meaning ‘brown skinned’. This track features some of the Philippines raising stars A, Fateeha, Tanikala and Palos.

The original track ‘Kayumanggi’ produced DJ Medmessiah and Illmind. Written by Morobeats.

Special appearance by Jabbawockeez.

NBA Finals 2020 Preview: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Miami Heat

Sports

Lawrence Cacnio

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October 1, 2020

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The 2020 NBA Championship will be decided between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Miami Heat.

After the league being shut-down due to the COVID-19 Pandemic and the restarted in the NBA ‘Bubble’ at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. We are down to the best teams in the from the Eastern and Western Conferences.

Los Angeles Lakers 1^st in West (52-19)

The Los Angeles Lakers have been the best team in the West this season. Being led by the superstar pairing of LeBron James and Anthony Davis, LAL were the in-form team before the shut-down. During the Seeding games in the bubble, their form was indifferent. However, when the play-offs started the team was locked in and breezed through The Blazers and The Rockets series with 4-1 wins. In the conference final they faced the up and coming Denver Nuggets, however they did eliminated Denver 4-1.

It has been 10 years since they last appeared in the finals. The Lakers are not only playing for their 17^th NBA Championship, they are dedicating this season to memory of the Lakers great Kobe Bryant, after his sudden passing in February 2020.

Miami Heat: 5^th in the East (44-29)

The Miami Heat have been one of the Biggest surprises of the NBA Bubble. Led by All-Stars Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo and the emergence of Rookie Tyler Herro, MIA have been on a tear, beating their more fancied opponents in the East. Starting with a 4-0 Sweep of the Pacers, they shocked everyone by beating the No.1 seed Milwaukee Bucks 4-1. In the Conference Finals they beat the Celtics 4-2 to advance through to the Final.

Already having 3 titles, this will be Miami’s 6^th Appearance in the Finals. 2014 was their last finals appearance when the team was led by Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh and Lebron James, who is now playing for the Lakers.

You can watch all the games live in Australia on ESPN or with NBA League Pass.

All times are AEST / ADEST

Game 1 Thu Oct 1 11am ESPN

Game 2 Sat Oct 3 11am ESPN

Game 3 Mon Oct 5 10:30am ESPN

Game 4 Wed Oct 7 12pm ESPN

Game 5* Sat Oct 10 12pm ESPN

Game 6* Mon Oct 12 10:30am ESPN

Game 7* Wed Oct 14 12pm ESPN

*Games if necessary

ASICS x Vivienne Westwood GEL-KAYANO 26

Sneakers

Jay Mijares

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September 28, 2020

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The renowned sports brand ASICS and the British legendary high-fashion brand Vivienne Westwood have teamed up again this year to launch new collaboration sneakers, ASICS x Vivienne Westwood GEL-KAYANO™ 26. Available in two colours, black and white, the collection will debut at the runway of Andreas Kronthaler for Vivienne Westwood Fall/Winter 2020.

Time-honoured and distinctive, both ASICS and Vivienne Westwood are brands drawing strength from superior quality, advanced technology and constant innovation in their respective professions. Sharing these traits, the two sides are deeply fascinated by each other’s design philosophy, which gives birth to this collaboration.

The new ASICS x Vivienne Westwood GEL-KAYANO™ 26 sneaker is inspired by the sack shoes first showed up in Vivienne Westwood‘s third Buffalo/Nostalgia of Mud/the Worlds End collection in 1982. This goes in line with the tribute paid by the first collaboration last year to the designer’s early creation years during the New Romantic (1981-1987).

Back in 1982, Vivienne Westwood’s creation went beyond the youthful and restless punk in England, and was expanded with a global vision. Inheriting the brand’s second Savage collection inspired by Native American clothing, the new season has drawn inspiration from exotic civilizations such as Jamaican Rastafari, Dominican Republic, Peru, New Guinea, and African tribes. Sack shoes are derived from a footwear style featuring a whole piece of leather to wrap feet, and are also associated to the way of cargo loading used in maritime trade during the W colonial period, echoing the brand’s Victorian world view at the time.

Nostalgia of Mud is not only the name of the season’s collection – the second store opened by Vivienne Westwood and her then partner Malcolm McLaren also bears that name. By creating an original soundtrack for the runway of the season and mingling the branded garments into his music video BUFFALO GALS, Malcolm McLaren also brought about a hit for a time – the Buffalo Gals style.

As a supporter of ASICS’s performance sports designs, Andreas Kronthaler, creative director of Vivienne Westwood, has specially selected the latest model in ASICS‘s professional running shoes series GEL-KAYANO™ – the GEL-KAYANO™ 26, as the base style for this year’s collaboration.

The precision-adjusted professional performance soles are retained, including full-length FLYTEFOAM™ Propel midsole combined with rearfoot GEL™ technology and FLYTEFOAM™ wedge, GUIDANCE TRUSSTIC™ system, forefoot twist GEL™ technology, and the I.G.S™ (Impact Guidance System) composed of DYNAMIC DUOMAX™ support system. The original double-layer engineering mesh upper is replaced by a complete piece of Ripstop anti-tear nylon, and the lace system is also simplified to an elastic webbing structure for easier wear. The pull and draw mesh covering the upper, while paying tribute to the Vivienne Westwood‘s iconic sack shoes, highlights the ASICS logo with mesh and straps delivering a sense of modern technology.

This also matches with the show that Andreas Kronthaler created for the Vivienne Westwood Fall/Winter 2020 collection. The signature Orb Saturn logo is embedded in the METACLUTCH™ external heel counter, a finishing touch in combination with heel reflective shields at rear. The modern and minimalist palette of black/black and birch/white adds more fashion vibes to the style.

ASICS x Vivienne Westwood GEL-KAYANO™ 26 are now available at ASICS.com, Above the Clouds and Up There Store.

Way of Wade 8 Performance Review

Sneakers

Derrick Narciso

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September 25, 2020

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Has the perfect basketball sneaker finally arrived?!?

With playground restrictions easing off a bit in Victoria, Australia we were finally able to give the Way of Wade 8 a decent run on the outdoor courts.

When the Way of Wade 8 was unveiled in ComplexCon, two models was brought out by Dwyane Wade himself. A model with a conventional lacing system and dual-boa style laceless version that reminded us of the Puma Disc System. For this review we used the conventional laced-up model called ‘Cotton Candy.’

FIT: 5/5

The WOW8 has brought back the strap, albeit situated closer to the forefoot. We found this strap extremely supportive. It held our forefoot in place during our side to side explosive push-offs and quick breaks. TPUs that look like fingers and ocean waves cradled majority of our foot in place. This kept our foot locked-in and prevented foot slippages inside the kicks. Majority of the uppers is made of Codura Fabric Tech. For the uninitiated, Codura fabric is commonly used in military uniforms and gears because of its durability, lightness and ability to wick away moisture. Unlike, nylon and cotton blended fabrics most commonly used in today’s ball kicks, the Codura fabric on the WOW8 does not have that dreaded stretch effect that happens during sudden stops (feels like your foot is falling off the kicks). Another amazing containment feature of the WOW8 is the racing bucket seat inspired suede heel cup. Targeted padding on crucial parts of the heel makes the ride comfortable but at the same time keeps our heel and ankles in place. We personally felt going true to your size is the way to go, although we have heard reports of going .5 down is also acceptable.

CUSHIONING: 5/5

The WOW8 blended two amazing cushioning technologies in their stable. First is their tried and tested Cloud Cushioning and the second (which is fast becoming our favourite) is the BOOM Cushioning. Cloud Foam is dense and rigid while the BOOM Cushioning is highly responsive. It felt like the perfect marriage on feet. We also noticed that the moulded BOOM Cushioning reminded us of a more compacted and smoother BOOST. A true carbon fiber spring plate reminiscent of the Jordan XI is found underneath the midsole. It provides amazing torque stability, energy return and reduces overall foot-fatigue.

TRACTION: 5/5

A solid performing All-Condition Rubber was used extensively in the WOW series, so why mess with a winning formula? Dwyane Wade’s logos adorn the entire translucent sole that provide the main source of traction. While we were only allowed to play outdoors with huge amounts of dust, debris and moisture, the WOW8 performed excellently. Not once did we experience any massive slippages and spills. Imagine how well the WOW8 would perform on the hardcourt. The outriggers found on the lateral side of the foot provide amazing protection from foot out-rolls during quick push-offs and directional changes.

LOOKS: 5/5

The aggressive aerodynamically designed WOW8 looks amazing. The sneakers are well built, no loose threads, no way-ward glue stains and the materials used scream premium. The incorporation of the number ”8″ on the lacing system is also aesthetically pleasing and works well with what the overall theme of the sneaker is trying to achieve. While others felt that the oversized WADE LOGO on the heel can be too much, we felt that it was just the right statement to make for this particular sneaker. Several easter eggs can also be found around the sneakers that adds to the overall design appeal. The ‘Cotton Candy’ colorway in particular feels like it stands-out in any street wear and basketball setting.

OVERALL: 5/5

Literally, WOW!!! The Way of Wade 8 is the recipient our first perfect score! It felt like the Sneaker Gods have answered our prayers and included all our favourite elements in one dope sneaker. You literally get what you pay for. No short cuts were made during the production of this sneaker. The Way of Wade brand has literally hit a home run with this performance beast. We also recommend the other fire colorways that has been released like the ‘First Born’ and ‘Liberty.’

While the price point of $292 AUD may have prevented ballers from purchasing the kicks right away, the 5% Off code: ‘TKS’ still applies and Sunlight Station has now introduced the LAY BUY purchasing system. Get the kicks now and pay later!!!

JD Sports Liverpool Grand Opening

Sneakers

Kevin Smith

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September 24, 2020

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Another week, Another JD Sports opening. Literally, it was only 2 weeks ago we covered the opening of JD Sports Wetherill Park. This time, we headed 15 minutes up the road to Westfield Liverpool for the 13th Store in the Sydney network.

We saw a pretty decent lineup at Wetherill Park 2 weeks ago, but this time around Liverpool turned it on. It was like the good ol’ days of sneaker releases with people camping out for this store opening…or it could have been for some super limited sneakers

With the store opening, always comes with some limited releases that have come out before and since sold out. This time around we saw the recently released Jordan Retro 5 “Alternate Bel-Air”, Jordan Retro 5 “Top 3”, Jordan Retro 5 “Fire Red”, Jordan 13 “Flint”, Jordan 12 “Indigo” and a number of Jordan Retro 1 and Retro 1 Lows.

This is the last Sydney store to be opened for 2020, TKS can confirm there are still a number of stores on the roadmap in Sydney for 2021 to fill in the holes plus more interstate with their plan to have a set number of stores in Australia which they are very much on target to achieve.

Check out the gallery below of the store and if you’re in the Liverpool area, be sure to head down and check it out in Westfield Liverpool. The store seemed quite narrow but deep which was the opposite to Wetherill Park.