Matalan’s investment in its UK stores comes as the retailer secured additional funding of £25m from investors in April this year to expedite its multi-year transformation.
Matalan will refurbish 30 existing outlets and launch 10 new or relocated stores in 2025, thereby increasing its presence in strategic areas such as London, Essex, Hampshire, and Northern Ireland.
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This initiative represents the initial stage of a comprehensive plan aimed at updating Matalan’s entire portfolio of stores over a period ranging from three to five years.
The company plans to continue this momentum by launching approximately 10 new stores each year, targeting areas not yet served by Matalan’s mix of product style, quality, and value.
Furthermore, Matalan intends to enhance 30 of its current stores annually. Enhancements will include layout improvements and design upgrades to facilitate a more efficient shopping experience.
Changes will include better delineation between departments and centralising services like fitting rooms and cash registers for easier access.
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By GlobalDataThe company is also set to implement new technologies focused on customer convenience, such as upgraded self-service checkouts that are quicker and simpler to operate.
Stores that have undergone recent refurbishments, including those in Croydon, Linwood, Bristol Filton, and Dumfries, have reported sales surpassing initial projections.
Matalan property director James Dorling said: “Matalan storefronts have been a fixture of UK communities for 40 years, so it is only right that bricks-and-mortar retail remains at the centre of our transformation programme. With 10 exciting new store openings and extensive refurbishments across our estate, this investment marks a step-change in our strategy – creating a better, more seamless shopping experience for our loyal existing customers, while also introducing the Matalan brand to new consumers.”
In addition to physical store investments, Matalan is directing funds into its digital and e-commerce capabilities. This includes the introduction of a new application designed to support both its online sales platform and customer loyalty scheme.
Currently, Matalan operates a network of over 265 UK and international stores and an integrated e-commerce platform.
