Bathstore trials smaller format store

Bathstore is testing a new small-format store at its Harrogate branch that has a greater focus on design and multichannel.

The 2,800 sq ft shop, which is almost half the size of a standard store, stocks 18 bathroom sets compared with 36 in a bigger shop, but customers can browse the full range using in-store screens.

It is the first store to push the retailer’s new 3D design service, which will be rolled out across its 170 shops. In-store designers can create a plan of a customer’s bathroom, based on the real dimensions, that they can take home to help in the decision-making process.

The retailer described the store design as “spa-style” and it has been laid out to create several zones that will feature standout bathroom sets.

It also includes new point of sale signage to show the full cost of a bathroom set, including any necessary extras, rather than just individual items.

Bathstore boss Gary Favell described it as a “turn-key” store, where customers can come in for complete solutions from inspiration through to design and installation.

Favell, a former MFI boss, joined the bathroom retailer in June last year following its acquisition by Leeds-based investment firm Endless.

Source : Retail Week
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