Warehouse expands online with new shopping site

Warehouse chief executive Ian Morrice at today's launch of the new online shopping service.

The Warehouse has today launched a new online shopping site, offering online buying initially of books, DVDs, CDs, gaming software and gift cards.

"The company believes the time is right for this new channel offering, with 77 per cent of New Zealanders aged 18 years plus now regularly using the internet, 67 per cent of all customers researching online, and an estimated 1.4 million shopping online," said chief executive Ian Morrice.

Morrice said that electronics and jewellery would be sold through the site shortly with additional products and categories rolling out over the coming months and into next year.

"The Warehouse trialled gift cards online at Christmas last year and were pleased with the results, particularly from New Zealanders overseas buying gifts for friends and family back home," said Morrice.

He said international research showed that "multichannel retailers" were enjoying success in overseas markets.

"Effectively leveraging their 'bricks and mortar' investment gives multichannel retailers a real advantage in the online space," he said

Purchases online have a delivery charge of $5.99 and delivery is only available within New Zealand at present.

- NZPA/ NZ HERALD STAFF