Harvey Norman is out headhunting: [1 Edition]
Stapleton, John. The Australian; Canberra, A.C.T. [Canberra, A.C.T] 15 June 2001: 42.
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Abstract
The holdings consists mainly of the 140 [Harvey Norman] sites, mostly in Australia, and more than 380 leaseholds.
Richard Champion, general manager of Harvey Norman’s property portfolio, said the company’s policy of buying rather than renting had proved very successful. The holdings act as an ancillary to the main business of retailing.
Full Text
AUSTRALIA’S biggest white goods, computer and furniture retailer Harvey Norman is looking for a new manager to drive its $500 million worth of property holdings.
The appointment is tied to aggressive plans to open 10 new stores around Australia.
The holdings consists mainly of the 140 Harvey Norman sites, mostly in Australia, and more than 380 leaseholds.
However there are five stores in New Zealand, three under construction and 10 on the drawing board. There are 15 in Singapore and building is starting in Slovenia, the company’s first venture in Europe.
Richard Champion, general manager of Harvey Norman’s property portfolio, said the company’s policy of buying rather than renting had proved very successful. The holdings act as an ancillary to the main business of retailing.
“We spend a great deal more than any developer would on landscaping and presentation of the facade. It makes the shops far more attractive to customers,” Mr Champion said.
Ownership “also enables us to refurbish and extend stores without being at the mercy of landlords”.