Australian Geographic has officially unveiled its new e-commerce shop to expand its brand footprint further into the digital space. The move will also create greater accessibility to its licensed products including toys, books, gadgets, homewares, and archival magazines.
Curated by the Australian Geographic team, the Australian Geographic Shop is complementary to the existing Australian Geographic website and will sell products across categories such as Toys & Games, Telescopes & Binoculars, Books, Home & Lifestyle, Gifts, Stationery, and magazines.
Working towards a sustainable future, 100% of profits from the Shop will be contributed to the Australian Geographic Society, including to support key conservation programs and initiatives. This is consistent across all of Australian Geographic’s activity across publishing, e-commerce and live events.
The team has appointed dedicated e-commerce professionals to oversee the site launch and its ongoing success including Senior E-Commerce Manager, Izaac Blomley, Retail and Licensing Manager, Tom Bates and E-Commerce and Subscriptions Manager, Karen French.
Izaac Blomley joins with over 10 years’ experience in sales and digital marketing with a deep appreciation for the Australian landscape. He will be responsible for leading the development and execution of Australian Geographic’s e-commerce strategy.
Tom Bates joins with 20 years’ experience in licensing and merchandise management and will drive strategic licensing management as well as retail and partnership growth.
With 30 years’ experience in customer and data analysis, Karen French will be responsible for the strategic management of customer acquisition channels across print and online, including subscriptions and e-commerce.
Managing Director, Sharon Wilson said: ”Australian Geographic’s new e-commerce offering will provide yet another valuable touchpoint for our dedicated audience, many of whom have been with the brand for decades. In particular, it will be an exciting engagement tool to connect with our fast-growing Gen Z and millennial followers who have a vested interest in conservation and adventure.
“Australian Geographic is consistently rated as one of our nation’s most trusted brands, and we look forward to continuing to extend our brand, and donate as much profit as possible to our conservation efforts.”
As part of the diversification plan, in November 2022 the team also launched the Global Premiere of its multi-sensory, 360 degree cinematic experience, Australian Geographic: Our Country 360° Cinematic Experience in Sydney to complement its publishing and digital arm. The live events experience employs advanced screen technology to immerse audiences in Australia’s wilderness and wildlife. In partnership with TEG Live and sister company, Northern Pictures, and supported by Tourism Australia and AAT Kings, Our Country will launch in Brisbane on 11 March, with tickets now on-sale.
The Australian Geographic Shop will sit alongside its current retail partners including QBD and will sell products made under license by partners such as UGames, Modern Brands, Ultimatum, Woodslane and Hardie Grant.