Canberra retail and dining openings highlight gains for local founders and incoming chains

Spotlight opened its first ACT store in Gungahlin on 1 July 2026, a 2,587sqm outlet that employs 45 staff drawn mainly from surrounding suburbs. The national chain's arrival coincides with the opening of Canberra Garms, a vintage clothing business started by five local teenagers, at 27 Lonsdale Street in Braddon.

Northern suburbs capture most new activity

The ACT records the highest percentage of new start-ups and small businesses in Australia, with more than 34,000 private businesses operating across the territory. Approximately 29,000 of those are small businesses, and around 60 per cent are concentrated in northern suburbs such as Braddon and Gungahlin. The ACT Small Business Strategy 2023-2026 identifies these firms as central to economic diversification and local job security. Piccolo Me is already planning further outlets in Greater Canberra, while Fricken will open a flagship store at Canberra Centre in Civic with an early July 2026 launch.

Matt Moran's first Canberra venues, the Italian steakhouse Compa and the sandwich bar &Sando, began trading in April. Additional openings include Hanoi Holic on Allara Street, Sliceria pizza inside East Traders Hall in Campbell, and 101c Hotpot in Dickson. These sites sit within established precincts that already host other hospitality operators.

Existing support programs underpin the pattern

Seven emerging Canberra startups received a combined $180,000 through the latest round of the Canberra Innovation Network ICON Grants Program. The next application round closes on 16 September 2026. The ACT Government has also established the ACTivate Capital Fund to back early-stage ventures over the next five to seven years. Canberra registered an average of more than 1,500 new businesses each year from 2018 onward.

Businesses that have secured premises in the northern suburbs or the city centre are positioned to draw on this established customer base and grant infrastructure. Operators considering expansion can review current ICON grant guidelines and available retail listings through the ACT Government's small-business channels before the September application deadline.

This article is general information only and is not personal financial or investment advice. Consider your own circumstances and seek licensed professional advice before making financial decisions.