The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has granted interim authorisation* to allow concession businesses operating within David Jones stores to participate in promotions such as storewide or department-wide discounts, ACCC Chairman, Mr Graeme Samuel, said today.
"The interim authorisation allows consumers to take advantage of the lower prices offered by concession businesses located within David Jones stores that decide to take part in promotions", Mr Samuel said.
Concession businesses are 'stores within stores' that display and sell particular brands. These businesses set prices, hire staff and sell products independently of David Jones. Examples currently operating within David Jones stores include David Lawrence, Esprit, Table Eight and Sheridan.
"This interim authorisation allows David Jones to include concession businesses in its promotions. Currently, if a David Jones promotion such as storewide discounts were to include concession businesses, it could raise concerns under the Trade Practices Act".
Individual concession businesses may still choose not to take part in any promotions. However, if they choose to take part they will be immune from legal action under the Act for the proposed conduct.
Interim authorisation allows the parties to engage in the conduct while the ACCC considers the merits of the substantive application. A decision to grant interim authorisation does not necessarily mean that the ACCC will ultimately grant authorisation. The ACCC is currently consulting interested parties about the application for authorisation.