A new discount store in Cranbourne, Melbourne, has experienced overwhelming demand since its opening, prompting police intervention due to chaotic scenes. Customers waiting for hours formed extensive queues around the Panda Mart warehouse, eager to enter the store which has quickly become a local hotspot.
The situation escalated on Wednesday afternoon as impatience grew among the crowd, which had swelled to approximately 1,000 people. Videos captured the frustration of shoppers attempting to push through the glass doors, some reportedly ignoring staff attempts to keep order. In response, authorities were called to manage the situation and ensure safety.
Due to the unrest, store management decided to close the doors temporarily and reopened the following morning with added security measures. Staff member Jordan Alkemade described the pandemonium, noting the immense pressure on the doors and the overall craziness of the scene. However, he assured that the implementation of security personnel and police presence contributed to a safer environment thereafter.
Panda Mart, a retailer that originated in South Africa over a decade ago, offers an extensive array of over 28,000 discounted homeware products, many of which are sourced from Chinese wholesale markets. The store is part of a growing international presence, with locations in South America, the US, and New Zealand.
Local shoppers have drawn comparisons between Panda Mart and the popular online discount shop Tumu, with many expressing excitement on social media platforms like TikTok. The store’s arrival in Australia has sparked a significant buzz, indicating a strong interest in affordable products amidst the ongoing cost-of-living challenges faced by many.