Empty Bunnings shelves sparks major change theory: 'Something is brewing'

EV enthusiasts were left intrigued after a Bunnings customer filmed a cryptic video inside an east coast store, alluding to the fact "something big" was due to fill a large display of empty shelves at the hardware chain.

The Melbourne man, known online as Ray, posted a video from the Bunnings branch in Melton, on the city's western outskirts. "[I] asked what's planned for [the] empty space, then got told it's a bit hush-hush," Ray said on social media.

Recording the hardware giant's EV section, showing chargers, supplies and other electric vehicle hardware, the video then pans to some nearby shelves which are completely vacant. "Bunnings... has some stuff coming, which I got told is quite large," Ray hinted.

Yahoo News Australia questioned Bunnings on what would fill the empty shelves. Cam Rist, Bunnings director of merchandise, told Yahoo retailer has quite an array of changes on the horizon.

Bunnings expands EV range, introduces sought-after Tesla battery

"We’re launching a range of electric vehicle chargers and accessories across selected stores to make it easier for our customers to own and maintain EVs," Rist told Yahoo News.

"The range, which includes wall-mounted EV chargers that can be installed in customers’ homes, is currently being rolled out to 40 pilot stores across Australia in a phased approach. We know the EV market is growing rapidly in Australia and we’re pleased to be making these products more accessible to customers at an affordable price, which have been traditionally hard to find in retail stores."

Confirming a wealth of online speculation, Rist said Bunnings is also introducing "a supply and install offer" for the Tesla Powerwall 3 home battery— to help customers transition to renewable energy around the home.

The Powerwall product is popular among electric vehicle owners for its ability to optimise energy use, cut costs, and enhance sustainability. The latest Tesla Powerwall 3 offers higher power output — up to 11.5kw continuous and a peak of 30kw. This means a single Powerwall, storing energy from solar or from the grid, can manage high-demand household appliances and EV charging simultaneously, a notable upgrade from earlier models.

Features like "storm watch" ensure the Powerwall is fully charged in preparation for potential power outages, giving EV owners peace of mind in the event of a blackout.

• Bunnings defends 'intrusive' CCTV tactic with shocking footage

• Plea to electric car owners ahead of expected 'hottest summer on record'

• Unexpected Bunnings 'visitor' highlights sad trend: 'Poor guy'

"This offer, which is being provided via a referral model, is also being rolled out to 40 Australian pilot stores in a phased approach," Rist explained. "We know many Australians are looking to make the shift to solar energy, over the next decade and we’re pleased to be helping make this Tesla offer accessible."

Bunnings noted the Tesla Powerwall is being provided by Bunnings through the referral model — but it is not being sold by the retailer per se, unlike the EV chargers and accessories in stores. While the Melton store does not yet have the Powerwall displays in store — they are coming soon, Bunnings said.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.