David Jones could shut up to half its stores as union flags alarm over jobs
The retail union says it will prioritise workers' legal and financial entitlements if redundancies come, while lender Hilco insists it remains supportive of the chain
David Jones is preparing to close as many as half of its 38 stores as the department store chain tries to reset its cost base, with thousands of jobs at risk and speculation the retailer could be placed into administration if it cannot reach a deal with landlords. The Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees' Association said it was alarmed by the company's position and stood ready to protect workers, while distressed lender Hilco Capital said it had provided funding to help the business through the Black Friday and December trading period.