‘Devastated’: David Jones brand boss speaks out
Retailer David Jones has entered voluntary administration, putting 6,000 jobs at risk and threatening the closure of over half its stores. Business owners who supply the iconic retailer have expressed shock and concern over the collapse of the 188-year-old brand.
Why it matters
The collapse of a major retail institution reflects broader economic pressures and shifting consumer habits in the Australian retail sector.
Alyce Tran was shocked at the David Jones news. Picture: Instagram
The boss of a popular brand stocked in David Jones stores has revealed her shock at the iconic retailer’s collapse, saying she never saw it coming.
Homewares brand In The Roundhouse, led by Alyce Tran, has been a mainstay at David Jones stores since Tran got a foot in the door 10 years ago.
Despite years of profit losses and whispers of 188-year-old retailer’s demise, Tran said she never believed David Jones would fold.
David Jones entered voluntary administration last week , putting 6000 staff at risk as more than half the retailer’s stores face closure in a radical restructure to salvage the business.
The brand had already shrunk to just 38 stores after huge profit losses, a shrinking consumer base, inability to pay suppliers and top brands simply pulling stock.
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