Clothing retailer Joules has reported that for the first time in its history, e-commerce sales accounted for half of its sales during the last year.
Joules stores were closed during the coronavirus lockdown and this contributed to the retailer making a pre-tax loss of £2 million during the year to May 31st, compared to a £12.9 million profit the year before.
After opening their stores in June, however, Joules said it was confident in their financial future. The Chief Executive, Nick Jones, said:
“While the retail sector will continue to face challenging trading conditions over the coming months, I believe that Joules is very well positioned to navigate both the existing and potential further COVID-19-related challenges and continue to invest in targeted growth opportunities.”
Though some clothing retailers have gone into administration in 2020, Joules is among the companies that have survived by increasing their online sales.
Online customers expect a wider range of clothing lines than in a retail shop, and this means ordering more stock. There is then the issue of needing extra storage capacity and efficient order processing systems to handle the high volume of orders every day. A Britain-based garment rails manufacture has the capacity to quickly supply rails to store the extra stock.
Another solution is to outsource distribution. Joules appointed Clipper Logistics as its distribution partner.
The COVID-19 pandemic affected all high street retailers, but shoppers are returning to stores who are following the new government guidelines to keep customers and staff safe.
Get a free quote