David Jones Enters Administration After Rent Defaults
David Jones has entered voluntary administration and receivership following failed crisis meetings with landlords and significant financial losses.
High-end retailer David Jones entered voluntary administration and receivership on November 4, 2026, after crisis meetings between its owner, Anchorage Capital Partners, and major landlords failed. The 188-year-old company is in breach of its lease with Scentre Group, its largest landlord, having failed to pay rent since September.
McGrathNicol was appointed as voluntary administrator to seek a sale of the business as a going concern or recapitalization, while FTI Consulting serves as the receiver and manager. The retailer reported a A$95.5 million loss for the 2024/25 period and missed its filing deadline for 2025/26 results. FTI Consulting attributed the collapse to rising costs, supply chain challenges, and an outdated retail footprint.
While online and physical stores continue to trade, the company is considering closing some of its 37 Australian stores and its single location in Auckland before the holiday season. Chief Executive Erica Berchtold stated the company has a plan to reset the business for the future and will work with administrators and secured lenders to pursue that goal.
