// Poundland unveils major transformation programme
// Customers will see refreshed stores, broadened offerings choice and technology investment
// Poundland is also set to pilot an ecommerce scheme via a Cannock fulfilment centre
Poundland has announced a new transformation programme that features changes to stores, pricing, and the overall breadth of its offerings – including an ecommerce pilot.
The discount retailer added that it hopes its transformation could help lead the recovery of the UK’s town centres and high streets as the country exits the coronavirus lockdown.
A key component of Poundland’s transformation plans, internally dubbed Project Diamond, is the pilot an online delivery service early next year, using one of its three stores in Cannock which will close this Saturday and begin its conversion into an online fulfilment centre.
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Poundland will also accelerate the rollout of chilled and frozen food to 60 stores and extending it to more later in the year, as well as invest in back office technology and make wifi available in every store.
The retailer will complete its simple pricing roll-out by the autumn – meaning every category will have extended ranges at prices above and below £1.
Meanwhile Poundland wants to build on the success of its Pep&Co fashion brand by opening six additional compact “shop-in-shops”, bringing a clothing offer to more than 310 Poundland stores.
There are also has plans to launch a brand new “shop-in-shop” concept later in the summer to step up Poundland’s general merchandise offer.
Another key component of Project Diamond is an investment in stores that will see Poundland refresh and refurbish its store estate and opening new stores.
The retailer said store revamp scheme and the tailoring of what they offer would be split into three categories: destination stores offering the full range of products including food, homeware, health and beauty and clothing; core stores offering a wide range of products on high streets ; and convenience stores offering “grab and go” easy shopping.
The latest Project Diamond stores to go live this month stretch from Consett, Newcastle and Cleveland in the North East to Slough, Thurrock, Pitsea and Borehamwood in the South East.
By the end of July more than half of the planned 60 stores will have the new offer, with the remainder completed by early September.
“We’re stepping up to support high streets after the impact of the coronavirus by being customer-focused, people-led and tech-enabled,” Poundland managing director Barry Williams said.
“This is the biggest transformation in our history as we look to secure our future for another thirty years.”
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