A digital homage to an iconic department store.

Foy & Gibson was one of Australia’s great retail powerhouses - a Collingwood-born department store empire that helped shape the nation’s shopping culture. From its humble beginnings in the 1880s, it grew into a national chain known for its beautifully designed stores, innovative window displays and an extraordinary manufacturing network that produced everything from clothing to furniture.

Driven by local craftsmanship and bold ambition, Foy & Gibson became a symbol of Australian ingenuity and although the brand has long disappeared, its influence still echoes through our retail history.

A man with a beard and shaved head speaking into a microphone while sitting on a chair, gesturing with his hand during an event or panel discussion.

Paul Flavel is a Melbourne‑based author and retail historian, originally from Adelaide and happily calling Melbourne home since 2009. Alongside his daytime profession, Paul has spent years exploring Australia’s rich department‑store heritage — a passion that led to his debut book, John Martin’s: The Story of South Australia’s Beloved Department Store, released in September 2024.

Although John Martin’s closed in 1998, the affection for “Johnnies” lives on through the enthusiastic audiences at Paul’s history talks and media appearances.

Paul is now turning his attention to Foy & Gibson, the iconic yet long‑lost department store born in Collingwood, Victoria. From humble beginnings, Foy & Gibson grew into a national retail powerhouse driven by local design, manufacturing and innovation — a cornerstone of Australia’s retail story.

Through this project, Paul aims to preserve the legacy of Foy & Gibson using archival material, surviving ephemera and personal interviews, ensuring this remarkable chapter of Australian history is not forgotten.

Historic street scene with multi-story brick and wood buildings, including a large building with a sign that says"Foy & Gibson" and "Drapers". People are walking on the sidewalk and horse-drawn carriages are on the street.
Painting of the John Martin's department store building in South Australia, decorated with flags and banners, with people and vintage cars in front.

John Martin’s

If the golden age of Australian retail sparks something in you, you’ll love John Martin’s: The Story of South Australia’s Beloved Department Store. It’s a richly told journey through the magic, memories and community spirit that made “Johnnies” an Adelaide institution.

Perfect for anyone who remembers the Christmas Pageant, lift ladies, dining in the restaurants - or simply loves a beautifully crafted slice of retail history.

The John Martin’s is available for $75.00 online or at local bookstores in Adelaide.

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Get in touch

Paul is looking for memories, photos and stories to help uncover the history of Foy & Gibson. If you have family connections, ephemera or recollections to share, he’d love to hear from you and add your voice to the project.

Vintage illustration of people in 1924 autumn and winter fashion on a city street, with a store front and sign for Toy & Gibson.