The Original Factory Shop in the News
Cumbrian discount stores contribute to record sales
Discount department stores in Maryport and Wigton have helped their owner rack up record sales.
The Original Factory Shop, which operates branches in both towns, said sales in the year to March 28 rose 35 per cent to £132m.
Profit in the same period grew 25 per cent, the company said.
Bosses have described the performace as “industry-leading growth”.
The business, which sells branded merchandise with discounts of up to 70 per cent, and a wide range of fashion, homeware, electricals and toiletries, is in the process of aggressive new store openings bolstered by the increasing number of bargain-hungry shoppers.
It claims to have created 700 new jobs.
Cumbria area manager Caroline Welch said: “We are delighted with the contribution the Wigton and Maryport stores made to the company’s success last year.
“It shows that we are providing what the people of Wigton and Maryport want – a wide range of goods at very affordable prices.
“Everyone loves a bargain, especially in these testing times, and there is something for everyone in store.
“No other UK retailer fits our model of being a national major non-food convenience retailer operating in local markets.
“Customers voted with their feet last year, as we expanded not only our store network but also our brand and product offering.
“In particular, we were pleased to strengthen our fashion offering through the launch of our own brands ‘Mimosa’ and ‘Headland’, as well as stocking quality brands such as Yves Saint Laurent and K Swiss.
“We are able to bring a collection of well known brands to local high streets.
“The Wigton and Maryport stores, like all our stores, worked hard at making a positive contribution to the local community from where we draw both our customers and our employees.”
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10 May 2010 by News and Star
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