David Jones to open first overseas store

Department store chain David Jones' first overseas store will throw open its doors in July at Wellington.

David Jones is preparing to open its first overseas store in New Zealand. (AAP) Source: AAP

David Jones is preparing to open its first overseas store in New Zealand.

The 178-year-old Australian department store chain, acquired by South African retailer Woolworths two years ago, will open its Wellington store on July 28.

The store will feature a new look already rolled out at DJ's Eastland store in Melbourne and its flagship store at Pacific Fair on the Gold Coast.

The Wellington store will house a premium cafe and the company plans to introduce a number of new brands to NZ, including popular international beauty labels Tom Ford and Benefit.

The retailer has taken over the lease of the 152-year-old Kirkcaldie & Stains department store, which is struggling financially, at Lambton Quay in Wellington.

David Jones will add another 10 stores to its existing 40 over the next five years.