SYDNEY: Following a turbulent 2010, David Jones is starting the new year with the introduction of 30 new department store exclusive brands to its stable.
Among the line up are Australian labels Therese Rawsthorne and men’s footwear brand Antoine + Stanley.
They will join other womenswear brands including Pucci, Balmain, Jonathan Saunders, By Malene Birger, Versace Collection, Lee Mathews, Bloch Loungewear, Toorallie and Falke on the department store floor.
In the youth fashion division, Mink Pink, Friend of Mine and Style Stalker are part of the new line up. For menswear, Canterbury and Witchery Man are now signed to the store.
Recently appointed David Jones group general manager fashion and beauty Sacha Laing said the departure of labels such as Simona, Escada and AG by Arthur Galan from the store had helped free up floor space for new brands.
“The continual introduction of new brands ensures that our offering remains fresh, relevant and reflects what our customers want,” he said. “It also means that we need to be disciplined in our allocation of floor space. Our business objective is to allocate space to exclusive brands with strong performance track records and high margins.”
A mix of footwear and accessories labels have also signed on to the department store exclusively. Footwear brands include Pierre Hardy, Costume National, Steptronic, Mason Avenue, Antoine + Stanley, Fred Perry and Naya. For accessories, DVF Handbags, Ella Sanders, Tolani, Estilo Emporio and American Tourister will be offered.
The company reported that it is on track with the rollout of its 1000 brand concept installations that were announced in September 2010. Labels which will benefit from expanded presence in the department store include Thurley, Bianca Spender, Camilla and Marc, Collette by Collette Dinnigan and Willow.
LEE MATHEWS: Department store exclusive with David Jones.
