The Original Factory Shop in the News
A cut-price department store that wants to fit in
The Original Factory Shop, which describes itself as a "local, low-price department store", opened its new store in Wells on Tuesday – and made a pledge to be an integral part of the local community.
The company, which has more than 130 sites across the UK, is committed to small, town-centre shopping in an era when many other big businesses are moving to out-of-town shopping centres. It has already snapped up 26 of the former Woolworths stores, including the Wells branch, located at 41 High Street.
The Original Factory Shop's sales strategy mixes high-street brands such as Adidas, Olay and Gossard at heavily-discounted prices, together with an extensive range of "cut label" and own-brand products.
The new store has packed a lot into the old building. The shop has done away with the old mezzanine section and replaced it with an upper floor packed with shoes, toys, electrical and household goods.
The racks of budget-priced clothes and accessories were an instant hit with shoppers in the city and as soon as the doors opened there were plenty who wanted to see what the store had to offer.
The 7,200 sq ft store is described as stocking "a value product mix that is proving popular in the current retail climate".
Area manager Helen Fildes said she was confident the new store will breathe new life into Wells town centre and will play a very important role in the local community.
"There's already a real buzz around town about us opening and the feeling is that our blend of great value and unbeatable prices will make us a firm favourite with local and visiting shoppers alike" she said.
"Our aim is to be an integral and valuable member of the community."
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13 May 2010 by SouthWest Business
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