New Look is to invest £3.3m into upgrading and improving its stores in Greater Manchester as it strengthens its commitment to its bricks-and-mortar portfolio.
The fashion retailer will trial several initiatives in its 20 stores in the area over the next 12 months to create a blueprint for further improvements across the rest of its estate.
The initiatives include improving store layouts and designs, upgrading technology and offering enhanced training to colleagues.
New Look said a “significant part” of investment will go toward cosmetic upgrades to boost the in-store experience, improve product merchandising and better align the retailer’s brand identity.
The retailer said its stores will offer a more tailored product approach to the region and host interactive displays to showcase online exclusives and a wider range of outfits and footwear, which customers can browse from in store and order for next-day collection.
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It is also implementing new technology in the stores’ back-end systems to run an improved returns approach, and a new next-day click-and-collect service that it claims will create a seamless shop for customers.
The trial also includes investment in team resource, such as “enhanced” training opportunities for store colleagues.
New Look CEO Helen Connolly said: “We’ve always been very proud to have a strong presence on British high streets, ever since we opened our doors over 50 years ago.
“This investment programme is an exciting step for us in how we can continue to elevate the shopping experience for our customers, while bringing them fantastic quality products and creating future growth for New Look.”
The brand’s retail director Elaine Cartwright added: “With over 20 stores in the surrounding area, Manchester is the perfect location for us to trial these exciting new initiatives and turn up the dial on our omnichannel offer.
“I am looking forward to working with colleagues to implement our plans and see which experiences add the most value to our customers.”
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