Clarks is launching a review of its store portfolio as new boss Mike Shearwood kick-starts plans to right-size and modernise its shops.
The footwear business is undertaking a root and branch review of its 550-strong store estate in the UK and Ireland and has drafted in retail property consultancy Harper Dennis Hobbs to advise on the process.
“The move is part of a raft of measures – including a drastic shortening of product lead times – that the Street-based retailer is setting in motion as it increases its focus on fashion”
Former Karen Millen boss Shearwood, who was drafted in as boss last September, said: “This will ensure that all stores are the right size and in the right locations to enable us to provide the right offering that matches our status as a desired retailer on the high street.
“This will be a big task, but we are excited and look forward to sharing our plans with landlords and working in partnership with them to explain the value that the Clarks brand can bring to their locations across the country.”
Shearwood said that the portfolio shake-up will mean a more contemporary shopping environment for Clarks customers.
Launching new-look branches
The retailer plans to open two concept stores in Manchester and Glasgow by the summer as it pilots new-look branches.
Clarks already has a showroom featuring the new modular fit-out in London’s Russell Square.
The move is part of a raft of measures – including a drastic shortening of product lead times – that the Street-based retailer is setting in motion as it increases its focus on fashion.
Clarks posted a 65% slump in profits in the year to January 2016.
Former chief executive Melissa Potter and finance boss Robin Beacham both left the firm in 2015, following falling sales.
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