Major south-east Queensland stores will be able to open longer with the state's industrial relations commission unanimously granting an extension of trading hours.
The changes, which will come into play on December 1, will mean major retailers can open from 7am to 9pm Monday to Saturday.
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Christmas shopping hours extended
Major south east Queensland shopping centres will be able to open until midnight in the days leading up to Christmas. 7 News Queensland
The National Retail Association cited independent economic research during the hearing that suggested the move could add $111 million to the state's economy and create 1000 jobs.
"It allows consumers the choice as to where they shop," Chief Executive Officer Dominique Lamb said.
The changes will benefit businesses from the NSW border to Gatton and as far north as Noosa.
Ms Lamb said it would make Queensland into more of a cosmopolitan state and rejected suggestions it could further contribute to the death of the humble corner store.
"Ultimately, people are still going to return to their local areas," she said.
"There's certainly a lot of 'buy local' campaigns at the moment."
Ms Lamb said the big win from the decision was the Saturday hours, which were previously restricted to 8am to 5pm.
The Palaszczuk government is currently completing a review of legislation governing the state's trading hours.
"We're hopeful this will mean Sunday will receive the same benefit but only time will tell," Ms Lamb said.
AAP
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