Record web boost for Republic
DESIGNER clothing store Republic has reported a record 35% increase in website sales during the 12 weeks up to January 1.
The Leeds-based business said that its online store saw web traddic increase 46% on the same period last year and the Boxing Day saw the largest nunmber of sales for any day in 2009.
The website, which has achieved a listing on Hitwise’s Top 10 Lifestyle – Fashion Websites, took more money on a higher margin than any of the fashion chain’s high street outlets.
According to Republic chief executive Tim Whitworth the results come against a challenging backdrop.
“Without doubt our Christmas trading performance capped another successful and record-breaking year for Republic,” he said.
“The market conditions and prior year performance of the business, which in itself was a record, indicated that securing such strong growth over the key Christmas period would be challenging.”
He said that despite wider economic challenges the firm’s unique market position, strong cash generation and talented team would ensure that 2010 continued its strong track record.
The fashion sector in particular has been at the forefront of innovation in
terms of bringing its products to the market through online channels.
Video ‘catwalks’ are increasingly being used to display products in a more
effective way than traditional product photography, aided by the widespread
adoption of faster broadband technology.
