Department store star pushes small format
Debenhams is understood to be planning an expansion of its small-format Desire stores. The decision comes two months after the retailer opened a pilot shop, which sells designer-led womenswear, lingerie, accessories and beauty products, in Truro, Cornwall.
It is thought that Debenhams plans to open as many as 140 Desire stores, following extended trials of the format. An outlet is expected to open at South Shields in early November and Orpington before Christmas. At least six are expected to follow next year.
Debenhams appears to have weathered the downturn in consumer confidence, felt strongly by the department store sector in particular. In the 13 weeks to February 26, the retailer's pre-tax profits were up 254.7 per cent to£101.1 million, compared with the same period last year.
At the time, chief executive Rob Templeman said the retailer's push into designer ranges was central to its business strategy.
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