Department store retailer David Jones celebrated its 180th anniversary yesterday.
To commemorate the occasion, David Jones, which was established in 1838 (only 50 years after the founding of Australia), created a short film featuring ambassadors Jessica Gomes, Victoria Lee and Adam Goodes, Food partner Neil Perry, Vogue Australia editor-in-chief Edwina McCann and Harper’s Bazaar editor-in-chief Kellie Hush, talking about the store’s role in shaping style in Australia.
The retailer is also hosting a public exhibit featuring 45 artworks by Sir Charles Lloyd Jones displayed on the windows of its Market Street store.
“It’s an incredible milestone for David jones to celebrate 180 years,” said David Thomas, David Jones CEO. “When you look back at our history, David Jones has been part of Australia’s fabric since almost the beginning and a driving force for style throughout the decades. Everyone has a story about David Jones, and it’s an honour and a privilege to play a role in the momentous occasions and rites of passage of so many Australians.”
As part of their anniversary celebration, David Jones’ CBD stores in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane on the 24th and in Perth and Adelaide today will offer complimentary sparkling wine to customers and will feature live DJs along with a range of special offers and appearances across the store.
David Jones is one of the oldest department stores in the world (a Canadian department store Holt Renfrew is only older by 6 months). It is followed by Harrods (1849); Macy’s (1858); Bloomingdales (1860); John Lewis (1864); La Bon Marche (1890); Neiman Marcus (1907); Selfridges (1909) and Galleries Lafayette (late 19th century).
