David Jones catering to the high-end ready meals market

David Jones chief John Dixon believes the high-quality food market in Australia is not being adequately serviced and that, by catering to this niche, David Jones can take a slice of the $100 billion Australian food market.

The company is intending to invest $100 million to build its food business over the next three years and is planning to deliver a world-class food experience including fine dining, food halls, restaurant-quality take-home meals, and premium food and groceries.

David Jones is partnering with Neil Perry in driving the transformation of its food services.

Dixon has already had some experience in the premium ready-to-eat meals market during his time as boss of Marks and Spencer’s $9.7 billion food business. The biggest takeaway from this time is his insistence on the importance of freshness and quality ingredients.

In the middle of next year, David Jones will launch its revamped food operation at its Bondi Junction store. Prior to this, the company will trial some different food initiatives.

David Jones is already looking to build relationships with local suppliers.