I have seen a lot of changes since I joined The Original Factory Shop 13 years ago. Most notable is the fact that we only had 13 branches then – this year, we will open our 82nd store in time for Christmas.
We are also now under our third -ownership since I started at the company. Each of the owners has brought their own ideas and investment and, as a result, the group has evolved considerably.
Over the past year in particular, we have witnessed very rapid growth, which is proving exciting for staff at every level.
I believe the key to our success lies in our ability to vary the product range, keeping it fresh, and intriguing -customers with a new product offering every time they come into the store.
When I first started, we used to rely on clearance stock, but -now we have a dedicated team of -experienced buyers who source branded merchandise from all over the world. This means that we can still offer quality goods at very -reasonable prices.
Managing the stock rotation is one of the biggest challenges we face, because about 80 per cent is one-off lines. This year, for example, our buyers sourced a range of wellies to coincide with the heavy rainfall – not a traditional summer line.
We often joke that it’s like Christmas every week, because we never know what will be in each delivery from the central warehouse in Burnley. It’s also a challenge to find space on the shopfloor for the -products. I feel this keeps our local base of customers coming back – they like to see what’s new in store.
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