Stubbyz and Bunnings: A Historic Collaboration

Australia's beloved home and improvement store, Bunnings, has long been a staple in homes across the country, providing everything from hardware to gardening supplies. Founded in 1886 by Arthur and Robert Bunning, the company started as a sawmill operation and evolved into the dominant force in the building and home improvement sector that it is today. Bunnings has consistently expanded, growing from a supplier of hardwood in Western Australia to a home improvement juggernaut with a footprint across Australia, New Zealand, and even briefly the United Kingdom.

But what many might not know is that Bunnings has also ventured into unexpected territory—such as drinkware. In a moment that would go down in history, Stubbyz became the first-ever stubby holder sold by Bunnings, marking a unique milestone for both brands.

Stubbyz: Australian-Made Quality for an Iconic Retailer

Stubbyz, a proudly Australian Made® brand, specializes in high-quality, customisable drink coolers and stubby holders. Known for offering a variety of customisation options—from screen printing to full-colour designs—Stubbyz has become synonymous with Australian events, concerts, festivals, and corporate gatherings.

When Bunnings sought to introduce a new line of lifestyle products to its vast range, Stubbyz was a natural fit. The two brands, each deeply rooted in Australian culture, joined forces to offer a product that celebrates Australian craftsmanship and tradition.

Bunnings’ Rich History

Bunnings' journey began in Western Australia, with the purchase of its first sawmill. Over the years, the company has expanded its operations to include a vast array of building supplies and hardware, eventually becoming a public company in 1952.

Throughout the decades, Bunnings continued to grow through acquisitions, such as Alco Handyman in 1989 and McEwans Ltd in 1993, which allowed the company to extend its reach to the east coast. Bunnings’ iconic Warehouse stores first opened in Melbourne in 1994, and by 2001, the acquisition of the BBC Hardware network allowed Bunnings to expand internationally into New Zealand.

Despite these expansions, Bunnings has remained focused on delivering the essentials to Australian and New Zealand homes, combining innovation with tradition. And this is where Stubbyz comes in—offering customers a slice of Australian ingenuity with every stubby holder.

The First Stubby Holder in Bunnings History

When Bunnings introduced Stubbyz stubby holders to its offering, it was a pivotal moment for both brands. For Bunnings, it was the first time in its storied history that a stubby holder—a true icon of Australian outdoor life—became available. For Stubbyz, it was the chance to showcase its superior craftsmanship and colourful options to a broader audience.

The collaboration opened new doors for Stubbyz, allowing their products to be featured in Australia's most prominent home and garden retailer, renowned for its vast range of DIY products. The inclusion of Stubbyz in Bunnings' range solidified the brand’s position as a leader in the Australian drink cooler market.

A Partnership Built on Shared Values

The partnership between Stubbyz and Bunnings goes beyond just product placement. Both brands share a commitment to quality, innovation, and delivering value to their customers. For Stubbyz, partnering with Bunnings provided a platform to reach a new customer base that values Australian-made products and sustainable practices. Bunnings, in turn, was able to offer its customers a premium product that represents Australian heritage, craftsmanship, and practicality.

Looking Ahead

The Stubbyz and Bunnings collaboration is a testament to how two iconic brands can come together to celebrate Australian culture. As Bunnings continues to expand its offerings, and Stubbyz innovates within the drink cooler market, this partnership showcases the power of Australian ingenuity in everyday life.

With Stubbyz available at Bunnings, Australians now have the perfect accessory for their next backyard BBQ or weekend DIY project—keeping their drinks cool while celebrating the rich history of two legendary brands.

Stubbyz Blog

  • Score Exclusive Gifts with Stubbyz’s “Gift with Purchase” Offer!

    Score Exclusive Gifts with Stubbyz’s “Gift with Purchase” Offer!

    Are you looking for an extra reason to stock up on Stubbyz’s merch? Well, we’ve got a cracker of a deal for you! With our new "Gift with Purchase" offer, you can get your hands on exclusive freebies just by shopping with...

  • Why Breweries Should Put Their Label Art on Stubbyz

    Why Breweries Should Put Their Label Art on Stubbyz

    Discover how breweries can elevate their brand by showcasing their can label art on Stubbyz, the original Australian Made® stubby holder, offering enhanced customer experience, long-lasting brand visibility, and customizable marketing opportunities.
  • How to Start Selling Colourful Stubby Coolers in Your Retail Store

    How to Start Selling Colourful Stubby Coolers in Your Retail Store

    A step-by-step guide for online retailers on how to add customisable stubby holders to their product offerings, highlighting design options, target markets, and ways to promote the product.
  • Why Custom Stubby Holders Are the Perfect Fundraising Tool for Non-Profits

    Why Custom Stubby Holders Are the Perfect Fundraising Tool for Non-Profits

    Detail how non-profits can use branded stubby holders to raise awareness for their cause, increase donor engagement, and create useful, eco-friendly merchandise for fundraising efforts.
  • Make Your Next Event Unforgettable with Personalised Stubby Holders

    Make Your Next Event Unforgettable with Personalised Stubby Holders

    An article exploring the various event types—such as festivals, corporate gatherings, and private parties—where custom stubby holders can serve as unique, memorable, and functional giveaways.
  • How Custom Stubby Holders Enhance Guest Experiences at Hotels and Bars

    How Custom Stubby Holders Enhance Guest Experiences at Hotels and Bars

    Dive into how hotels, bars, and restaurants can use branded stubby holders to provide a memorable guest experience, increase brand recognition, and boost customer loyalty.
  • Stubbyz and Bunnings: A Historic Collaboration

    Stubbyz and Bunnings: A Historic Collaboration

    The partnership between Stubbyz and Bunnings marks a historic collaboration, with Stubbyz becoming the first stubby holder ever sold by Australia's leading home and improvement retailer, combining Australian craftsmanship with Bunnings' extensive retail reach.
  • Boost Your Retail Sales with Australian Made® Stubby Holders

    Boost Your Retail Sales with Australian Made® Stubby Holders

    Talk about the appeal of locally-made products, especially for tourist and gift shops, and why carrying custom Australian Made® stubby holders can attract more customers and increase sales.
  • Game Day Gear: Custom Stubby Holders for Sports Teams and Fans

    Game Day Gear: Custom Stubby Holders for Sports Teams and Fans

    Highlight the benefits of custom stubby holders as team merchandise, discussing how they can boost team spirit and serve as a source of fundraising for local sports teams and clubs.
  • Unique Wedding Favours: Why Stubby Holders Are the Perfect Personalised Gift

    Unique Wedding Favours: Why Stubby Holders Are the Perfect Personalised Gift

    Discuss why custom stubby holders make the perfect wedding favors, combining practicality with personalisation, and how they can be tailored to match any wedding theme.
  • Why Every Brewery Needs Custom Branded Drink Coolers

    Why Every Brewery Needs Custom Branded Drink Coolers

    Showcase how custom stubby holders can enhance a brewery's merchandise range, boost brand visibility at events, and create loyal fans through unique, branded gear.
  • Maximise Your Brand Impact with Custom Corporate Stubby Holders

    Maximise Your Brand Impact with Custom Corporate Stubby Holders

    Explore how custom stubby holders can be a powerful tool for corporate branding, helping your company leave a lasting impression at trade shows, corporate events, and in your client gift packages.