David Jones today officially opened its first international store in Wellington, New Zealand, marking a significant milestone in the department store’s 178-year history.
David Jones’ flagship New Zealand store occupies the heritage listed building that previously housed Wellington department store Kirkcaldie & Stains.
Following a $20 million facelift, the new store features the same contemporary design debuted at David Jones’ Eastland store in Melbourne last year and, more recently, at its new flagship store at Pacific Fair on the Gold Coast.
Last night more than 150 VIPs joined New Zealand Prime Minister, John Key, at an exclusive event to celebrate the store’s arrival on Wellington’s ‘Golden Mile’, Lambton Quay.
This morning David Jones ambassador, Jessica Gomes, cut the ribbon at the official opening of the retailer’s 41st store in front of a crowd of eager customers, joined by David Jones chairman, Ian Moir, and David Jones CEO, John Dixon.
“We’re excited to offer our customers at David Jones Wellington a premium retail experience on par with the best department stores globally,” said 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 New Zealand with a world class shopping experience.”
The store will introduce new international brands not previously available in New Zealand, as well as stocking a number of New Zealand labels.
Wellington Chamber of Commerce chief executive, John Milford said David Jones has done a superb job with the refurbishment of the former Kirkcaldie and Stains store.
“They have built a store that will challenge the best in the world and of which the city can be proud.
“David Jones is part of a fantastic global retail business known for their quality offering, and they have brought that to their first store in New Zealand. I’m not surprised they opened here first, given the Wellington demographic of well-travelled, high earning shoppers.
“Long before the opening we were seeing the halo effect David Jones’ presence was having and I’m convinced that will continue. Retail space in that part of town has never been tighter. Some exciting new brands have moved in, and more are due to open soon. Together they add to the credibility, class and elegance of the retail offering, like Kirks did in its heyday.
“Lambton Quay already has one of the highest foot traffic counts in New Zealand, and I have no doubt that will increase. This will be a destination that will be great for the city.”
Milford, a former Managing Director of Kirks, said he was delighted to see so many of his former staff working in the new store. “They are a very loyal group and I know they will add to the service David Jones is renowned for.
“I must also say a final thanks from Wellington to Kirks for 152 years of wonderful service and contribution to the city and the region. They set the tone down the years and that is about to be picked up by David Jones.”
