David Jones Parramatta faces closure in collapse
THE future of David Jones at Westfield Parramatta is in doubt following the collapse of the iconic Australian department store chain into voluntary administration and receivership.
The Parramatta store is among several locations reportedly facing closure as administrators examine the future of the struggling 188-year-old retailer.
David Jones entered administration on November 5 after negotiations with major landlord Scentre Group, which operates Westfield shopping centres, broke down.
The retailer had reportedly failed to pay rent since September, adding to mounting financial pressures, declining sales and difficulties with suppliers.
Receivers from FTI Consulting have been appointed to oversee the business, while administrators McGrathNicol will examine its financial position.
Parramatta, Hornsby, Woden, Southland and Carousel are among the Westfield locations identified in reports as potentially facing closure.
However, no final decision has been announced regarding the Parramatta store.
The uncertainty follows the closure of David Jones stores at Castle Towers and Tuggerah earlier this year.
A closure at Westfield Parramatta would represent a change to the city's retail landscape, potentially affecting employees, shoppers and neighbouring businesses.
David Jones store has long been a major retail attraction within one of Western Sydney's busiest shopping centres.
Administrators are expected to review the store network as they assess options for restructuring or selling the business.
For Parramatta shoppers and retail workers, the immediate concern is whether the landmark department store will survive the company's financial crisis.
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