Descendant of department store founder joins creditors after David Jones collapse

Ben Nothling, whose ancestor founded the David Jones department store in 1838, said his shoe brand Holster is now a creditor of the retailer that has entered administration. Holster, which the brand says is sold in more than 30 countries, was stocked in David Jones stores from 2011 until the recent collapse.

Nothling told A Current Affair that his company is seeking repayment of about $130,000 for summer shipments and $118,000 of stock held in a warehouse at wholesale value.

Other suppliers face similar losses. Jacob Leung, who provides hand-woven blankets through his business Slowdown Studio, said he is owed $75,000 and that the unpaid amount is affecting his ability to cover staff, manufacturing and printing costs.

David Jones reportedly owes $320 million in total, including $100 million to suppliers and trade creditors. Receivers have noted a rise in foot traffic and sales as consumers continue to shop, and Leung suggested that buying directly from small businesses could help keep profits within those enterprises.