Business1 min read

Australia's oldest department store David Jones collapses after 188 years

By · Published by Everything Blog

In short

Voluntary administrators McGrathNicol and receivers FTI Consulting are overseeing operations to provide the retailer breathing space for a strategic turnaround. The company's 38 storefronts and digital platform will continue serving customers while leadership works on a reset plan. Financial strain accelerated when Westfield owner Scentre cited the business for a tenancy breach just hours before the administration decision. Retail analysts point out that while iconic city flagship locations retained prestige, an outdated suburban footprint ultimately proved unsustainable.

Key points

  • Voluntary administrators McGrathNicol and receivers FTI Consulting will conduct an operat…: Voluntary administrators McGrathNicol and receivers FTI Consulting will conduct an operational review to restructure the business.
  • Christopher Hill noted that an outdated physical retail footprint and tough market condit…: Christopher Hill noted that an outdated physical retail footprint and tough market conditions drove the store into administration.
  • The retailer's suburban locations struggled to attract shoppers despite flagship sites ma…: The retailer's suburban locations struggled to attract shoppers despite flagship sites maintaining luxury appeal through traditions like Sydney Christmas displays.

Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1

- Published

David Jones, Australia's oldest department store chain, has gone into voluntary administration, putting thousands of jobs at risk.

It comes after years of financial struggles for the 188-year-old retailer - known locally as DJs - as customers desert traditional shops for online shopping.

David Jones's physical and online stores will continue to operate while receivers FTI Consulting review the company, said voluntary administrators McGrathNicol.

"David Jones is an iconic company and so many Australians have stories and memories of visiting DJ's stores," said its CEO Erica Berthold, adding the brand has a "well-developed plan" to "reset the business for the future".

Berthold thanked "customers, our team members and our partners for their continued support of David Jones through this period".

David Jones employs about 6,000 staff and has 38 physical stores, with 17 of those in Westfield shopping centres.

Hours before the board voted to go into administration, Scentre - which owns Westfield - said the retailer had not paid its rent for October and was "therefore in breach" of its tenancy agreement.

"We understand the current retail…

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