Former Staff Reflect on Luxury Era of David Jones Department Stores

Former employees of the David Jones department store have shared memories of the company's past, recalling rigorous training programs, theatrical window displays, and personalised customer service during their decades with the retailer.

Stephen Hunter, a former visual merchandiser who worked at the Perth city centre location, described the current state of the store as a sad experience. His recollections of what he referred to as the Terrace store included extravagance and elaborate sets, such as theatrical window displays featuring Rolls-Royce vehicles.

Hunter told ABC News Breakfast that current staffing levels are insufficient to maintain the standards previously upheld by the retailer. He stated that there are not enough people present in the city store to sustain the level of quality once associated with the brand.

Gwen Sutton, who began working at the Sydney central business district store at the age of 16 following World War II, described her employment during that period as heaven on a stick. Her memories included former chair Sir Charles Lloyd Jones arriving at the Elizabeth Street store dock by car.

Sutton recalled that the former chairman would enter through the ground floor wearing a Homburg hat before travelling up the escalators to the office spaces. Both former staff members noted that their careers at the department store commenced with strict and thorough training.

David Jones continues to trade while administrators review ongoing business options for the retailer.