Hawkins may take on Myer in retail warfare

She was once the face of Myer, but now model Jennifer Hawkins is on the verge of teaming up with a shock new rival in the department store game.

Former Myer model Jennifer Hawkins could return as the face of a new online department store to challenge Myer and David Jones, according to market speculation.

The private equity firm behind womenswear label Noni B is understood to be assessing a business plan for an online-only department store to be fronted by Ms Hawkins.

Alceon, which has emerged as one of the nation’s biggest retailer investors, is also believed to be eyeing off a new round of acquisitions as it consider opening a shopping portal that would provide fresh headaches for Myer and David Jones.

Retailers in the sights of Alceon for acquisition include fashion brands Jayson Brunsdon, Leona Edmiston and Camilla.

The former Miss Universe reportedly picked up $16 million for her 12 years as the face of one of the nation’s most famous retailers.

Former Marie Claire editor Jackie Frank is also understood to be involved in the potential new venture.

Myer and David Jones are struggling to slim down legacy bricks-and-mortar businesses as they confront the rise of online shopping and new international competitors.

Ms Hawkins, who is expecting her first child, wound up her relationship with Myer at the end of last year amid deep cost cutting.

The former Miss Universe reportedly picked up $16 million for her 12 years as the face of one of the nation’s most famous retailers.

Elyse Knowles, winner of the 2017 season of The Block, has since become the department store’s brand ambassador.

Alceon has emerged as one of the nation’s biggest retail investors over the past five years, snapping up a string of businesses that have fallen on hard times.

Jen Hawkins, who is expecting her first child, wound up her relationship with Myer at the end of last year amid deep cost cutting.

They include womenswear retailers Noni B, Rockmans, Table Eight, Beme, W. Lane, Millers, Katies, Crossroads, Autograph, children’s clothing brand Pumpkin Patch, general apparel retailer Rivers, as well as online retailers SurfStitch and EziBuy.

The Sydney-based private equity group is the biggest shareholder in Noni B, grabbing a near 40 per cent stake in the retailer for 51c a share in 2014.

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Noni B has since bulked up its business, buying the Pretty Girl Fashion Group from James Packer in 2016 for $75 million.

Last year it shelled out ­$31 million for five brands from the struggling Specialty Fashion Group.

Noni B has returned to profit and its shares are now changing hands for about $2.77 each.

— With The Australian

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