Despite the tough trading conditions, The Original Factory Shop is stepping up its expansion plans.
The discount department store plans to open at least 16 new sites over the next three months, expanding its presence on major high streets around the UK (see below). A number of stores will take over former sites occupied by M&Co, the women’s clothing retailer that collapsed into administration at the end of last year.
As part of its strategy, the business is investing in premium fixtures and fittings as well as introducing member prices for members of TOFS Club and App.
Phil Briggs, Managing Director of The Original Factory Shop, commented: “Our investment in new store openings is about making sure we have the right stores in the right place. We’re identifying catchments where The Original Factory Shop is not represented and that includes a focus on high streets in major towns.”
“Our growth is testament to the importance of multi-department stores and the roles they play in helping local communities. These openings will help provide more job opportunities at a time when they are most needed.”
The Original Factory Shop currently has 185 outlets which operate in small towns with average populations of around 10,000.
The new stores planned for the coming months include:
- Kirkintilloch, which opens on the 24th August
- Stonehaven, which opens on the 31st August
- Blandford Forum, which opens on the 31st August
- Haddington, which opens on the 7th September
- Wetherby, which opens on the 7th September
- Nairn, which opens on the 14th September
- Ashbourne, which opens on the 14th September
- Castle Douglas, which opens on the 21st September
- Penrith, which opens on the 21st September
- Inverness, which opens on the 28th September
- Attleborough, which opens on the 28th September
- Ayr, which opens on the 5th October
- Ringwood, which opens on the 5th October
- Perth, which opens on the 12th October
- Lanark, which opens on the 19th October
- Peterhead, which opens on the 26th October
