2001–2024: Changing ownership and new brands
In 2001, Just Jeans was taken private in a $108 million management buyout led by British-based private investment group Catalyst Investment Managers.[7] In May 2002, Just Jeans acquired women's clothing chain Portmans.[7]
The Just Group was listed on the ASX in May 2004.[8] In August 2004, the Just Group acquired the Dotti chain for $5 million.[9] In July 2007, the Just Group acquired stationery chain Smiggle for at least $29 million, becoming the first non-fashion brand in its portfolio.[10]
On 8 August 2008, Premier Investments obtained a controlling interest in the shares of Just Group following an off-market takeover offer for all of the group shares that commenced on 31 March 2008. Just Group was delisted from the Australian Securities Exchange on 22 September 2008.[11][8]
In 2011, the group was criticised for using sandblasting to wash off their jeans, a method known to cause silicosis.[12] In 2013, the group was still using sandblasting.[13] The Baptist World Aid's 2015 Fashion Report named the Just Group one of the worst performers when it comes to protecting international workers.[14] From 2012 to 2015, the group went through its digital retail transformation.[15][16]
In October 2016, the Just Group lost its trial against its former CFO Nicole Peck who had left the company to work for a competing company.[17] In August 2017, the brand director of the group, Colette Garnsey, stepped down for medical reasons.[18]
Richard Murray commenced as Premier Retail Chief Executive Officer on 6 September 2021, and was appointed to the Premier Board as executive director on 3 December 2021.
