Brisbane is one of those cities that doesn’t try too hard – and that’s part of the charm. It’s the capital of Queensland, built along a winding river and surrounded by leafy suburbs, industrial hubs, and coastal escapes. It’s the kind of place where locals balance business with lifestyle, and where many small-to-mid-size businesses choose to operate because it’s well-connected without being hectic.
From an industry point of view, Brisbane is growing. Rapidly. With more people moving here each year, more retail businesses opening, and more demand for stock, distribution, and supply – it’s become a key player in Australia’s wholesale scene. But it’s not as crowded or over-saturated as Sydney or Melbourne, which is why a lot of wholesalers and distributors prefer to set up shop here. You get the access, but without the cost.
The city has solid infrastructure too. Major motorways link it to regional Queensland and northern NSW, while the Port of Brisbane and Brisbane Airport keep freight moving nationally and internationally. For businesses that rely on importing goods, storing stock, and getting products out quickly, Brisbane hits the sweet spot between scale and affordability.
Walk around the inner suburbs and you’ll see it first-hand. In places like West End, smaller wholesalers and independent designers are setting up showrooms and creative studios, often hidden behind roller doors or tucked into industrial lots. Head further out and you’ll find larger-scale operations in places like Rocklea and Virginia – supplying everything from fresh produce to commercial packaging.
The diversity of wholesalers here reflects the character of Brisbane itself – a city where creative industries sit alongside established trade, and big business still feels local and approachable.
More buyers are sourcing stock locally, and more suppliers are setting up shop to meet demand. Brisbane’s role as a wholesale base keeps growing.