Cutting-edge consumer electronics is being targeted as a key driver of growth for Asda’s general merchandise business, according to non-food trading director Tony Page.
As part of that strategy, Asda has introduced Wal-Mart’s Durabrand range, which includes everything from alarm clocks to TVs. “They are great quality products at great value,” said Page. “And if we can bring
new technology to market faster, that’s good for us.”
Asda has also started trials of a technology centre at its Tamworth store, where it can sell contract mobile phones as well as new gear such as MP3 players and hi-definition TVs (The Grocer, May 14, p14).
Page said Asda was keen to exploit opportunities in its more established service areas such as photo booths, opticians and jewellery kiosks. And he said homewares was a third area where Asda could build its business significantly.
In an interview in this week’s issue of The Grocer, new Asda president Andy Bond says developing its non-food offer is key to his plans to make the chain stand out from rivals.
Asda has opened its eighth standalone George store and has opened a third Asda Living non-food store. However, Bond said there were no plans to fast-track any roll-out of these concepts. “Both remain very promising ideas for us. But it is important that we understand how to operate these properly. We are still learning.”
Asda has pulled its menswear collection from its George store in Northampton. Staff said the range was just not selling. Asda said the move was part of the format trials and did not signal the end of menswear in standalone George stores. >>p37 Growth tactics? Simple!
As part of that strategy, Asda has introduced Wal-Mart’s Durabrand range, which includes everything from alarm clocks to TVs. “They are great quality products at great value,” said Page. “And if we can bring
new technology to market faster, that’s good for us.”
Asda has also started trials of a technology centre at its Tamworth store, where it can sell contract mobile phones as well as new gear such as MP3 players and hi-definition TVs (The Grocer, May 14, p14).
Page said Asda was keen to exploit opportunities in its more established service areas such as photo booths, opticians and jewellery kiosks. And he said homewares was a third area where Asda could build its business significantly.
In an interview in this week’s issue of The Grocer, new Asda president Andy Bond says developing its non-food offer is key to his plans to make the chain stand out from rivals.
Asda has opened its eighth standalone George store and has opened a third Asda Living non-food store. However, Bond said there were no plans to fast-track any roll-out of these concepts. “Both remain very promising ideas for us. But it is important that we understand how to operate these properly. We are still learning.”
Asda has pulled its menswear collection from its George store in Northampton. Staff said the range was just not selling. Asda said the move was part of the format trials and did not signal the end of menswear in standalone George stores. >>p37 Growth tactics? Simple!
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