The big store isn’t the whole story.

A little love for an Australian icon and independent Australian brands.

For 188 years, David Jones has been part of the Australian cultural fabric.

From its beginnings in Sydney in 1838, it’s helped shape the way Australians shop, discover new things and celebrate life’s big occasions.

It’s also played an important role in the stories of countless Aussie brands. Giving designers, makers and independent businesses a place on its shelves, an introduction to new customers and for some their big break to grow into household names.

That’s a legacy that will always be worth celebrating.

When a major retailer gets into trouble, the story rarely ends at the shopfront.

Behind the shelves are independent businesses. Designers, makers and founders who’ve invested in creating products, producing stock and getting it into stores.

For some Australian brands, David Jones entering voluntary administration has meant unpaid invoices, uncertainty around existing stock, and questions about what comes next.

And the timing couldn’t be much tougher. With Black Friday, Christmas and Boxing Day approaching, we’re heading into one of the most important trading periods of the year for Australian retailers.

These are businesses making genuinely good things. Things worth discovering, buying and sharing.

The Other Store is a simple idea: bring some of those brands together in one place and make it easier for Australians to shop directly with them.

We’re not selling anything ourselves. We don’t take commissions, charge listing fees or process payments.

We’re just helping people discover great independent brands and find their way to the people behind them.

The Other Store gives a little more attention. Hopefully a few more customers. And maybe a bit of a hand when it’s most needed.