BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
Halfords is to ramp up its ‘multi-channel’ efforts, according to this report in the Retail Bulletin.
The retailer hinted that it will spend cash on developing 60 to 70 of its stores into multi-channel outlets to drive growth in the chain.
The firm revealed it would also be adding to its 466 stores with between 10 and 15 shops each year – though what effect the rebranding of the Cycle Republic and Bikehut stores will have on that figure is unclear.
During a talk at the Marketing Society Retail Forum, Halford CEO David Wild said that the stores website is enhancing its store presence, particularly with its ‘Reserve and Collect’ service: “The website does not compete but absolutely enhances the store portfolio.”
“We’ve now got a clear and coherent strategy… and there will be growth online, and in store.”
At the Forum the CEO predicted that the start of next year will be difficult for many retailers.
“Life is tough but not impossible. The winners will recognise the opportunities and invest to exploit them,” Wild added.
