David Jones is staking out fresh new territory, opening its first international store in Wellington, New Zealand.More than 150 VIPs joined New Zealand Prime Minister John Key last night to celebrate the store’s arrival, with Key unveiling a commemorative plaque and addressing the crowd, welcoming David Jones.
David Jones ambassador Jessica Gomes this morning cut the ribbon at the official opening.
Featuring “a bold, contemporary store design”, operating over three floors, the new-look David Jones flagship store, offering both international and New Zealand brands, occupies the heritage-listed building that previously housed department store Kirkcaldie & Stains.
A $20 million-plus refurbishment has seen “the addition of escalators, air conditioning and premium fixtures and finishings throughout”, with the “enhancement of the customer experience with inspiring spaces and dynamic visual merchandising” central to the design.
“We’re excited to offer our customers at David Jones Wellington a premium retail experience on par with the best department stores globally,” David Jones chief executive officer John Dixon commented.
The store offers more than 500 brands across fashion, beauty, accessories and home, and is decked out with a premium cafe, with services including a gift registry, parents’ room and complimentary Wi-Fi.
David Jones recently posted strong annual sales growth, with South African owner Woolworths Holdings revealing that sales increased by 8.4 per cent in Australian dollar terms over the year ending June 26, with sales in comparable stores growing by 7 per cent.
