Autoparts and workshop equipment supplier, Andrew Page, reported a 50% growth in its channel retail business in the first four months of the year.
Driven by significant updates to its retail offering, aimed at car enthusiasts and home engineers, the growth is a result of new in-branch retail outlets and improvements to the company’s e-commerce operations.
The Leeds-based company has added 12 new retail sites to its network in the last eight months alone, strengthening Andrew Page’s coverage and reaching new areas with the launch of sites within the M25 and in Wales. The company has also refurbished its flagship store in Farnborough, Hampshire, with a new look and design and a refreshed stock profile to meet growing demand for car parts and accessories.
Working in conjunction with the physical stores, Andrew Page has added new user-friendly functions to its retail website, including live chat with ‘Mike and his Mechanic’ to provide real-time expert advice and support to visitors. The company’s online offering has been further boosted following the acquisition of specialist rival, Solid Auto, earlier this year, as well as the introduction of a click-and-collect function for all branches in the network.
Andrew Page has also launched a discount card scheme to strengthen customer relationships, providing opportunities for extra savings on all products bought through any of its channels. Card holders will have access to exclusive offers across the range, featuring products from over 200 brands covering car parts, accessories, cleaning products, maintenance equipment and fluids and lubricants.
To support the multi-channel strategy, and as recognition of more car drivers searching for vehicle repairers online, Andrew Page is working closely with WhoCanFixMyCar.com to provide a fully-managed service to workshops and bridge the gap between the driver and the garage.
Mark Saunders, Andrew Page Chief Executive, said: “Our updated retail website reflects the growing consumer demand to be able to browse for products and complete purchases online. However, we firmly believe that you still need a physical presence so people can come in and interact with the team and the product directly. The results so far certainly support that approach, with 50% of online orders being fulfilled through the in-store click-and-collect function.”
