This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
GLOBAL leader in athletic footwear and apparel, New Balance, is relocating its Australian headquarters to Up Property’s Morris Moor in Moorabbin.
New Balance is making the move to align its workspace with the company’s growth plans and ESG and cultural tenets.
Up Property’s Morris Moor, located around 15km from the Melbourne CBD, resembles the company’s iconic USA headquarters in Boston, with its state-of-the-art facilities and curated fit-out blending functionality and aesthetics.
Pat Burke, principal at MP Burke Commercial was the leasing agent responsible for facilitating the deal, representing both parties.
“Understanding the needs and objectives to create a standout work environment, which was to energise staff at New Balance to return to a stimulating and collaborative workspace in a location that offered exceptional facilities,” said Burke.
“Morris Moor stood out as the best, most creative work environment; the perfect destination, given its design and impressive character space, high ceilings, on-site parking and comprehensive amenities.”
New Balance is also looking to attract and retain talent through the move, with the location reportedly appealing to a younger demographic.
“We are thrilled to welcome New Balance to Morris Moor. Our expansive facility brings together all the elements that modern businesses seek,” said Marcus Jankie, general manager at Up Property.
“From various amenities such as yoga studios, sporting facilities, pubs, and cafes, to ample parking and excellent transport links, we have created an environment that offers everything under one roof.”
The move also reflects a strategic shift away from a traditional office setting, with New Balance looking to redefine its culture and create a space that fosters creativity, connectivity, and collaboration among employees.
“The move also defines the global company’s long-standing commitment & support for the local community,” added Burke.
“Other national & international brands contemplating a move will view NB’s decision to remain in the area at a significant discount to inner city locations such as Cremorne and South Yarra as important they also seek to retain key staff, boost productivity and limit disruption whilst delivering an exceptional work experience for their business.”
Up Property developed Morris Moor out of the original 1950s factory, rather than demolishing the space.
In repurposing the building, Up Property saved over 19 million kilograms of embodied carbon, the equivalent of 400 rail cars full of coal.
The site has Net Zero Carbon building operations target with an all-electric design, 5-star NABERS specification, energy-efficient independently controlled VRV mech services, rooftop solar photovoltaic system (up to 245kw system), five electric vehicle chargers and end-of-trip facilities.
“Up Property has worked diligently to create a unique and enticing workplace that exceeds community standards in ESG,” said Burke.
“This venture has proven successful, attracting high-profile tenants such as New Balance, delivering extraordinary results and reducing environmental impact and operating costs. The investment made in the development of Morris Moor has paid off, offering a remarkable alternative to conventional business parks.”
Funlab was one of the most recent tenants to be secured in the latest stage at Morris Moor, joining over 150 businesses from commercial offices to start-ups, warehouses, and manufacturing, which attract 750 to 1,000 people each day.
With Morris Moor also including hospitality businesses such as Stomping Ground Brewery Co, Penny for Pound bakery and Royal Stacks burger eatery.
