Retailer reports consistent sales growth and market share gain in licensed category.
Matalan is continuing to make waves in the licensed character space, with its ranges continuing to outperform expectations.
The retailer’s Kate Callender told Source that the retailer had seen consistent sales growth and market share gain (in both value and volume) heading into the summer period – despite the volatility on the UK high street. Initial sales reaction to new transitional and autumn ranges had also proved positive.
“Matalan reported a great winter 2018 season for licensed character with sales significantly up on the year,” commented Kate, who enjoyed a successful week at Licensing Expo earlier this month with her colleague, Denille Halsall-Rooney. “There are no signs of this momentum slowing as we are currently performing 37% ahead of this time last year.
“We have bucked the trend by ranging key licences for collectable toys, gaming and social influencers, ensuring we have a balance of family favourites and new crazes. Working alongside great suppliers such as Aykroyds and Bioworld, we have been able to launch first to market on two of the most popular licences of 2019. We remain open minded and flexible when approaching new licences; it is a very different market compared to that of five years ago.”
Matalan’s international franchise partners are also benefitting from strong sales, with stores in the Middle East, Malta and Gibraltar soon to be joined by Cyprus.
Licensed range expansion is also being planned for the men’s, ladies and homewares divisions, while Kate reports a “fantastic reaction” to the toy concessions, Totally Toys. “This solution offers a one stop shop for toys and apparel and we look forward to working alongside the team to offer cohesive ranges in the near future,” Kate continued. “To remain a true family retailer is at the forefront of our company vision and licensing plays a very important role in our strategy. We want to expand our retail presence in both the UK and international markets by offering a fulfilling shopping experience for all the family.
“We are looking forward to working alongside our strategic partners on several new and exciting opportunities which are in the pipeline for 2020. After a very successful week at Licensing Expo, we have confidence in our ambitious plans to continue growth and further establish Matalan within the licensing retail space.”
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