Value-orientated chain The Range is following the likes of Amazon with the launch of a Marketplace offer that will allow third-party partners to sell via its website.
The Range Marketplace is currently inviting suppliers to register their interest ahead of a planned opening this Autumn.
By taking on partners and their products on an exclusive basis, The Range stated that it was building a “superior marketplace that promotes professionalism, quality and positive customer experiences”. The retailer highlighted that the Marketplace will increase the variety of products available for its website visitors, whilst enabling suppliers to reach its 15 million customers per week.
The Range stressed that there would be no steep learning curve for suppliers, with a simple application process and fast product loading procedure. There is also no setup, subscription or monthly fees, only fees after a product is sold.
The company stated that it will provide support to marketplace partners from day one, enabling them to connect their products to the right customers and maximise sales. Suppliers will also enjoy exclusive selling rights, with no competition against other marketplace partners for the same product.
The retailer said: “With 30% of the products sold on The Range’s website this summer having been from their trusted third-party suppliers, The Range Marketplace seems to be a logical and business-enhancing next step in the development of the company.”
The Range’s website currently sells a variety of general merchandise and FMCG lines. The retailer also hosts Iceland stores inside many of physical branches.
NAM Implications:
- The online marketplace scene will become simpler & more complex…
- …for suppliers as it fragments.
- But key to be onboard nonetheless.
- All we know is that it will become bigger, at the expense of traditional retail…
- …with no one able to afford not being part of the action.
