POP Canberra

POP Canberra has become a distinctive landmark for shoppers looking for gifts, souvenirs, and artisan products that genuinely represent the region. Located at Shop G12/27 Lonsdale Street in the vibrant Braddon precinct, this boutique brings together over 300 local makers under one roof, with more than 7,000 products available across categories including jewellery, beauty, coffee and tea, ceramics, stationery, and craft beer. The store was designed to connect customers with the creative talent that defines the Australian Capital Territory, and stepping inside reveals carefully curated displays that rotate with the seasons, creating an experience that feels more like a gallery than a conventional shop.

Since its launch as a four-week pop-up in 2018, the business has grown into a permanent fixture of the Braddon retail scene. Founder Gabe remains hands-on in championing makers of all backgrounds, and the team continues to discover fresh talent so the range stays dynamic. What began with just 40 makers has exploded beyond 300, and the store now operates as a nationally recognised retail concept. From late-night shopping hours to regular tastings and events, POP Canberra has evolved into a community hub where customers can meet the makers, sample products, and participate in a local shopping experience that celebrates handmade, artisan goods designed and manufactured by local people.

Why POP Canberra Stands Out

POP Canberra is not just a store; it is a mission-driven enterprise. Every product on the shelves is sourced from local Australian makers, meaning shoppers are not just buying an item but also directly supporting the livelihoods of independent creators. This commitment to economic empowerment is a core part of the store's identity, and the business holds accreditation as a Sustainable Accredited Business through the Quality Tourism Framework. Ethical sourcing, reduced packaging waste, and a culture of inclusivity further distinguish POP Canberra from mass-market retailers.

The store also runs a tiered pricing structure and gift options designed to make high-quality, handmade goods accessible to customers with different budgets. Whether you are looking for a small token under ten dollars or a premium corporate hamper, the selection ensures value without compromising on authenticity. The POP Points loyalty program rewards returning customers with benefits that can be redeemed against future purchases, turning occasional visitors into lifelong supporters of the local economy.

Product Range and Seasonal Collections

The breadth of the product range at POP Canberra is staggering, with carefully organised categories that make browsing both intuitive and inspiring. The current lineup includes:

• Canberra Merch: City-branded souvenirs, from mugs to prints, celebrating the capital's identity.
• Beer, Wine & Spirits: Locally brewed beers and small-batch spirits crafted in the region.
• Snacks & Confectionary: Artisan chocolates, pantry staples, and regional treats perfect for gifting.
• Coffee, Tea & Hot Chocolate: Blends roasted and packaged by nearby producers, alongside comforting hot chocolate options.
• Jewellery & Accessories: Handcrafted earrings, necklaces, and statement pieces from local designers.
• Beauty & Fragrances: Natural skincare, soaps, perfumes, and candles made with ethical ingredients.
• Books & Prints: Works by local authors and illustrators, plus limited-edition prints.
• Ceramics & Tableware: Hand-thrown mugs, bowls, and serving dishes that double as functional art.
• Stationery & Stickers: Greeting cards, notebooks, and quirky stickers ideal for personal correspondence.
• Kids Toys & Pet Goods: Gifts for children and four-legged friends, all locally produced.

Seasonal edits such as the Winter Warmers collection bring additional variety, featuring toasty treats and cosy essentials that combat the chill. The corporate gifting program allows businesses to create custom hampers using only local products, making a powerful statement about supporting the community while delighting clients and staff. New stock arrives regularly, and the What's Hot section highlights trending items so customers can discover what is exciting the local maker community right now.

Accessibility and Inclusivity Commitment

POP Canberra's approach to accessibility extends far beyond physical entry. The store features wide aisles, step-free entry, accessible counters and seating areas, and automatic doors, ensuring customers with mobility needs can navigate the space comfortably. Designated accessible parking facilitates arrival, while signage, lighting, and music levels are carefully managed to support those with sensory sensitivities. Sensory hours are available on request to create a calmer environment for visitors who find typical retail settings overwhelming.

Digital platforms follow accessibility best practices, including screen reader compatibility, alt text for images, clear navigation, and responsive design, so customers can engage with the brand confidently before they even arrive. Over-the-phone and video shopping services with home delivery and hand delivery ensure that customers who cannot physically attend still enjoy a personalised browsing experience. Staff receive ongoing training in inclusive service, focusing on clear communication, patience, and empathy to support people with autism, social anxiety, mental health conditions, and other needs. Service animals are welcomed in-store, and quiet spaces are provided during events.

Social accessibility is equally important. POP Canberra employs a diverse team that reflects the Canberra community and actively partners with disability advocates, multicultural groups, and community organisations to refine and improve practices. The store proudly encourages First Nations makers to showcase their work, bringing Indigenous voices and stories into the retail environment and strengthening cultural representation. Every year, the business supports more than 200 community groups through donations and vouchers, including schools, disability organisations, mental health initiatives, youth groups, and arts programs. This commitment demonstrates that inclusivity means actively contributing to the community as well as welcoming it into the space.

Customer Experience and Reputation

Google Maps reviewers consistently rate POP Canberra highly, with the business holding a 4.8-star rating based on more than 300 reviews. Shoppers frequently describe the store as an absolute must-visit, praising the unique souvenirs, gift ideas, and the overwhelming variety that makes every visit an adventure. One reviewer noted that it was fun to browse through the selection of wines, chocolates, books, fridge magnets, earrings, mugs, and more. Another highlighted the value despite some items being expensive, explaining that the quality and uniqueness made it worthwhile. Many reviews emphasise that Canberra has needed a store like this, one that curates the best of the region in a single, welcoming location.

The team's responsiveness to feedback is evident in the reply to reviews, where the owner and staff frequently thank customers and compliment their photos. This personal engagement builds trust and reinforces the sense that POP Canberra is genuinely invested in its community. The store has also introduced extended trading hours and additional checkout options in response to customer requests for greater convenience, proving that feedback directly shapes operations.

Sustainability and Social Impact

Sustainability sits at the core of POP Canberra's operations. The business is dedicated to reducing its environmental footprint, from the products it stocks to the packaging it uses. As a Sustainable Accredited Business, it continually innovates to reduce waste, conserve resources, and promote eco-friendly practices across every aspect of the enterprise. Ethical sourcing ensures that all products are made under responsible conditions, supporting local creators who share the same values of sustainability and social responsibility. Customers can shop knowing their purchases have a positive impact on both the makers and the environment.

Economic empowerment is another pillar of the social impact strategy. By supporting over 300 local makers, POP Canberra fuels the local economy and provides opportunities for growth. The store creates pathways for small producers, many of whom started as hobbyists, to reach a wider audience and build sustainable businesses. The corporate gifting program extends this impact by introducing local products to businesses across Australia, amplifying the reach of Canberra's creative community. The POP Points program further incentivises repeat support, ensuring that the economic cycle of local investment continues to strengthen the region.

Services and Shopping Options

POP Canberra offers multiple ways to shop, accommodating different preferences and circumstances. In-store shopping remains the heart of the experience, with late-night trading on select evenings creating a fun, unique atmosphere. Phone and video shopping services allow customers to connect with staff remotely, who guide them through the product range and arrange home delivery or hand delivery. The online store, launched alongside a rebrand in 2024, provides shipping Australia-wide with free delivery on orders over $100. Click-and-collect is also available for those who want to browse digitally and pick up their purchases from the Braddon location.

For businesses, the corporate gifting program allows custom hampers to be built entirely from local products, making a powerful statement about supporting the community while delighting clients and staff. Gift boxes can be tailored to specific budgets and themes, and the tiered pricing structure ensures that high-quality local goods are accessible to a wide audience. VIP Rewards members receive 10% off their first order over $50 when they subscribe, providing an added incentive to join the POP community.

Location and Visitor Information

POP Canberra is located at Shop G12/27 Lonsdale Street in Braddon, Australian Capital Territory. The store is situated within the Nibu Building, a bustling hub that puts it at the centre of one of Canberra's most dynamic shopping and dining precincts. Public transport, cycling, and driving are all viable options for reaching the location, with accessible parking designated for customers with mobility needs. The address is easily found on Google Maps, where the store's profile provides photos, reviews, and navigation assistance.

The surrounding area offers a vibrant streetscape of cafes, restaurants, and other boutiques, making a visit to POP Canberra part of a broader Braddon experience. Visitors can spend a morning browsing the store, grab a coffee nearby, and explore the neighbourhood's creative energy. Street View and satellite imagery on mapping platforms give first-time visitors a clear sense of the storefront and entry, while the website includes detailed information on planning a visit.

Opening Hours and Events

POP Canberra operates with extended trading hours designed to accommodate a variety of schedules. While specific hours may vary by day, the store generally opens from 10:00 AM and stays open until 9:00 PM on several evenings, with earlier opening times of 8:00 AM on certain days and later closing on others. Weekend hours are also generous, ensuring that both local residents and visitors can find time to explore the range. The store is closed on some public holidays, so customers are encouraged to check the website or phone ahead for the most current information.

Regular events such as tastings, maker meet-and-greets, and seasonal launches bring the community together in-store. Late-night shopping hours, introduced in 2021, add a lively dimension to the Braddon nightlife. The business also hosts quiet hours for sensory-sensitive shoppers, demonstrating its commitment to making events accessible. Updates on upcoming events are shared via social media, the website, and in-store signage, so there is always something new to discover at POP Canberra.