French Connection launches iPhone app
By Jon Whiteaker - 03:02PM - Mon 14th March 2011
A new mobile phone app specially designed for iPhone users has been launched by fashion retailer French Connection.
Showcasing the entire French Connection range of products, the app is fully transactional, links to social media platforms Twitter and Facebook, and allows users to consult a ‘look book’ for outfit combinations.
Created by mobile technology strategists Answer, the app promises to deliver fast content download without annoying loading pauses.
Jennifer Roebuck, Digital Director at French Connection, said: “Mobile commerce was the next step in our multi-platform digital strategy.
“The cloud-based App model from Answer means that all data is in one place to power real-time functionality for our customers and overcome potential integration issues.
“For example, someone can start browsing online on their computer in the morning, try on in store at lunch and then checkout on their mobile to avoid queuing at the tills.”
French Connection announced another investment in cloud services in February when it confirmed it had hired software specialists Maginus to improve the speed of its main website at peak times. Maginus Cloud Services now handles all of its online transactions.
Steve Dobson, Head of Design and Innovation at Answer, commented: “The cloud-based App helps with this providing a business hub as a central point of data control.”
“There are also cost efficiencies for businesses to opt for app development in the cloud. With no upfront costs of infrastructure set up, budgets are wrapped into a planned service on a paid for monthly basis.”
Full-year profit-before-tax for French Connection is expected to total around £6.8 million when the brand releases results on Wednesday, with UK trading likely to be in-line with expectations.