Sales are hotting up for Bonmarché with more than double annual profits reported
THE rise of silver surfing and a push into garden centres helped more than double annual profits at bargain womenswear business Bonmarché.
The high street chain catering for over-50s reported a 66 per cent uplift in pre-tax profit to £8million in its maiden results as a listed company.
Sales to the year ending March 29 totalled £164million.
Online sales grew 84 per cent following a digital marketing push according to Bonmarché chief executive Beth Butterwick.
“This is one of the fastest growing age profiles online, down to the growth of tablets that are easier to use.”
There are lots of opportunities to go where these customers are
The chain also plans to open up to 20 stores within garden centres following a successful trial.
“Gardening is the fourth most popular pursuit in this age group.
"There are lots of opportunities to go where these customers are.”
Improvements in customer service such as bra-fitting, the introduction of mannequins and a clearer pricing strategy all contributed to a sales uplift.
Bonmarché’s share price rose 6p to 870p.