It became one of Australia's biggest brands by selling upmarket apparel over almost two centuries. Now David Jones, one of the world's oldest department-store chains, is targeting Australia's A$100-billion-a-year (R1.054-trillion) food sector to insulate it from the encroachment of online rivals. The strategy is being rolled out by John Dixon, a former Marks & Spencer executive who was appointed CEO of the chain by Woolworths, the South African group that acquired David Jones in 2014. David Jones is investing A$100-million to build a food-retail business and open a network of convenience stores. "There is nothing like this anywhere in the world. It is a food revolution for Australia," said Dixon during a tour of a newly renovated David Jones food hall in Sydney. The food hall is based around a 280-seat restaurant developed by celebrity chef Neil Perry. It incorporates an oyster bar, bakery, butcher, fishmonger and delicatessens, offering delicacies that can be cooked and consumed on...
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