By Aimee Chanthadavong
Myer and David Jones are in a bitter battle for one of Australia’s top designer labels, Ellery.
It is understood Kimberly Ellery, the brains behind the Ellery label, has offered Myer’s rivalry David Jones her autumn and winter line, which was due to be launch as part of Myer’s winter season collection.
Jo Lynch, Myer general manager, corporate affairs, has told RetailBiz, Myer is taking legal action against Ellery for breaching an exclusive contract.
“Kimberly signed a binding exclusivity contract with Myer and there’s been a breach of that,” she said.
“We’re disappointed we haven’t been able to resolve it, which is why legal proceeding is commencing.”
The Ellery brand has been exclusive to Myer since 2011.
“We’ve had a great relationship with Kimberly Ellery and we want that to continue…but it can only happen when that is reciprocated,” Lynch said.
“We think she’s very talented and we’ve invested significantly in our alignment with the brand.”