It was first revealed in July last year that David Jones would be heading to New Zealand – with news being leaked the department store would be replacing long-standing store Kirkcaldie & Stains. Now, the 178-year-old store is thrilled to open the first international store with its official launch in Wellington, New Zealand last night.
Attended by a crowd of more than 150 VIPs, New Zealand Prime Minister John Key welcomed David Jones to the country's capital and unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion.
Following last night’s festivities, this morning saw David Jones ambassador Jessica Gomes open the store to consumers with the cutting of the ribbon on the retailer's 41st store.
“We’re excited to offer our customers at David Jones Wellington a premium retail experience on par with the best department stores globally,” says David Jones chief executive officer John Dixon.
"We’ve worked hard to inject a level of ambience, excitement and experience into our design, store content, product assortment and services that will provide our customers in New Zealand with a world-class shopping experience."
To coincide with the store launch, David Jones has expanded its range of New Zealand brands to include Twenty-Seven Names, Karen Walker, Kate Sylvester, Saben, and Rodd & Gunn, on top of its current Kiwi offering of Sabatini and Trelise Cooper. The department store will continue to boast a large range of international fashion brands.
Image: Instagram.com/davidjonesstore
