The Works closes ecommerce website with immediate effect
The Works has ceased trading on its online channel and is transitioning to a non-transactional website.
The retailer of screen-free activities for the whole family has been operating as a multi-channel retailer since 2012, although over 90% of sales have been driven by its 500 stores.
Subscribe to TRBIn a statement, The Works said the online channel had provided shopping convenience for customers but had been impacted by operational challenges experienced by two third-party fulfilment partners over the last two years.
Due to the channel’s “relatively small” revenue contribution and loss-making performance, the retailer’s board has now decided that it is no longer sustainable.
Under The Works new trading model, the website will serve as a shop window to its brand and stores, where customers can browse its range of arts and crafts, stationery, toys, games and books online.
The Works said the simplified operating model will enable it to focus on its core strength as a bricks-and-mortar retailer where it sees scope to expand its footprint by a further 100 locations.
Gavin Peck, chief executive of The Works, said: “We have reached this decision after a thorough assessment of the options available and are confident that focussing on our successful bricks and-mortar business is the right step to reduce risk, improve operational clarity and support long-term profitable growth.
“A website that enables customers to browse our products and seek inspiration will help to bring our brand to life and drive customers to our 500 stores.
“Our mission – to become the favourite destination for affordable, screen-free activities for the whole family has never been more relevant and this, combined with ongoing delivery of our ‘Elevating The Works’ strategy, means we are well-positioned to achieve significant and profitable growth in the years to come.”
