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David Jones could shrink to 12 stores, 7NEWS reports

The Australian department store chain is seeking a buyer and better lease terms, while some suppliers demand upfront payment, according to the report.

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7NEWS Australia Story of November 4, 2026Trari Newsroom

Why this story? One of 7NEWS Australia's most watched videos since yesterday, with 70,160 views.

David Jones faces closure of 70% of stores | 7NEWS

Most of David Jones's department stores are in jeopardy as the retailer negotiates with landlords and seeks a buyer, 7NEWS Australia reports.

The broadcaster says closures are inevitable, but describes the scale of the cuts as a possibility rather than a settled outcome: 26 of the chain's 38 stores are at risk, potentially leaving just 12 locations.

Its map highlights underperforming stores including Carousel in Perth, Parramatta and Hornsby in Sydney, Woden in Canberra and Southland in Melbourne. These are locations identified in the report, not a confirmed closure list.

Footage shows largely empty aisles. The presenter describes low foot traffic and few staff, setting out the immediate pressures on a retailer whose history stretches back nearly two centuries.

According to 7NEWS, the owner is looking for a buyer while trying to secure better deals from landlords. Some nervous suppliers are withholding goods unless they receive payment upfront, adding a stock problem to the chain's financial difficulties.

The report says David Jones has secured a $10 million credit extension to buy stock for the pre-Christmas sales season, when it needs merchandise on the shelves to bring shoppers through the doors.

Published on Trari