Hut Group bags new product lines
THE Hut Group has launched a website taking it into the world of fashion accessories, as it prepares a wider push into new consumer goods categories.
The Northwich-based online retailer has launched mybag.co.uk – a handbag & accessories website – as the first step in a strategy that will also see the group move into the sports, health & beauty, footwear and toys sectors.
Matthew Moulding, chief executive of The Hut Group, told TheBusinessDesk other new specialist sites would be launched in the coming weeks.
The mybag.co.uk site will offer free delivery on all orders, and carries lines such as Mischa Barton, Nica, Ameko, Ri2k and Max C London. Prices range from £8 for a canvas shopper up to £200 for a leather grab bag. The site also sells belts, jewellery, scarves, sunglasses and umbrellas.
The company said it has identified handbags and fashion accessories as a key growth area and that it will offer the products through the new site, as well as across its growing retail partnerships with High Street and online retailers.
Mr Moulding said: “All product areas we are looking at need to complement the existing supply chain so that we can maximize speed of success.
“This typically means we are looking at all fast moving consumer goods products that are non-perishable, relatively small and not requiring two man delivery, and with relatively low levels of return rates.
“Bags and accessories fit well within these criteria and a trial of the products on TheHut.com has shown there is significant demand for the products from the consumer.”
He added that the company already has the infrastructure in place to deliver new product categories and websites at relatively low cost, with the main investment being in additional staff.
It has recruited Michelle Marley from Shop Direct, along with a small number of key merchandisers, to drive the site’s progress.
As well as its own retail sites, TheHut.com and Zavvi.co.uk, the company also delivers online solutions for customers including Asda, WH Smith and Shop Direct.
