Woolworths eyes kids-only stores in Britain

LONDON - Woolworths is testing the market for children-only stores in its latest bid to fight back against fierce competition that saw its interim losses almost double to £66.3 million ($190 million).

It also unveiled plans for 100 new stores over the next four years in a change of strategy that involves focus on smaller high street outlets.

The group has spotted a gap in the market for a children's toys-to-clothing chain in city centres. A new Argos-style catalogue, which it is launching next month with 10,000 products, will include larger toys it cannot stock in smaller outlets. "It will be the definitive catalogue for kids," said chief executive Trevor Bish-Jones.

The retailer wants to broaden the range of goods available to customers in even its most cramped stores.

It has improved its website and installed internet kiosks in all of its 800-plus outlets so shoppers can buy and order in-store and online.

Woolworths is desperate to lift its sales, which fell 8.3 per cent on an underlying basis in the first half.

- INDEPENDENT