Tag Archives: Debenhams

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Debenhams unveils plus size model Joann Van Den Herik as the new face and body of its SS18 Gorgeous DD+ lingerie collection

Debenhams unveils plus size model Joann Van Den Herik as the new face and body of its SS18 Gorgeous DD+ lingerie collection

 

LONDON, 2018-Feb-08 — /EPR Retail News/ — Debenhams has unveiled plus size model Joann Van Den Herik as the new face and body of its SS18 Gorgeous DD+ lingerie collection with a shoot, the UK first for the model, to showcase ranges landing instore and online from February.

The 19 year old curvy campaigner who is the cousin of model royalty, Gigi and Bella Hadid, regularly posts body-positive messages to her near 60K Instagram followers. With girl-next-door looks, relatable body image and a candid approach to modelling, the Netherlands based model has been gaining popularity with brands and consumers alike snapping up her first UK contract with Debenhams for its Gorgeous lingerie line.

Promoting a healthy body image Joann models several key pieces for the season including bralettes, bodies and pieces that can be worn to be seen.  On landing the contract Joann said, “I’ve always wanted to be a model but didn’t realise that there was a market for my shape and size. I think it’s very important to show all the boys and girls out there that size doesn’t matter and that you’re perfect the way you are. I translate that into my work as a model and on social media. I’m a strong believer in body-positivity and that every body is beautiful.”

The Gorgeous Spring 2018 collection includes soft neutrals and includes underwired and soft cup options of bra’s and bodies.  With a number two position in the DD+ market, Debenhams is well placed to offer curvier ladies with a range of fashionable and supportive lingerie right up to 40HH cup size.

Debenhams Head of Buying and Design for lingerie, Sharon Webb said “Joann is a fantastic ambassador for our Gorgeous DD+ brand.  Her positive attitude and body confidence message is incredibly inspirational and something that so many can of customers can relate to, we are so excited to be working with her.”

The Gorgeous DD+ range is one of the exclusive brands alongside Reger by Janet Reger, B by Ted Baker, Nine by Savannah Miller and Collection that Debenhams offers with Spring pieces available from mid-February instore and online at www.debenhams.com

About Debenhams

Debenhams is a leading international, multi-channel brand with a proud British heritage which trades out of more than 240 stores across 27 countries.  Debenhams gives its customers around the world a unique, differentiated and exclusive mix of own brands, international brands and concessions.

In the UK, Debenhams has a top three market position in womenswear and menswear and a top ten share in childrenswear.  It holds the number two market position in premium health and beauty.

Debenhams has been investing in British design for 21 years through its exclusive Designers at Debenhams portfolio of brands.  Current designers include Abigail Ahern, Savannah Miller, Ted Baker, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, FrostFrench, Patrick Grant, Henry Holland, Julien Macdonald, Jenny Packham, Preen, Aliza Reger, John Rocha and Matthew Williamson.

CONTACTS:

For more information, images or samples please contact the Debenhams Press Office;
Lorraine.clough@debenhams.com or Elsa.heron@debenhams.com

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams research reveals the amount of preparation and planning shoppers make when it comes to Black Friday sales

  • New research from Debenhams reveals the amount of preparation and planning shoppers put into making sure they get the item they want on Black Friday
  • Over a third (34%) plan to book the day off work or have already got the day off in order to tackle the Black Friday sales. Nearly half (44%) of men have, or are planning to, book the day off work compared to just a quarter (24%) of women.
  • Early bird does catch the worm when it comes to Black Friday – more than one in ten (14%) are planning to wake up at 6am to face the sales with a further 7% setting their alarm for 5am
  • All of Debenhams Black Friday deals can be found here: debenhams.com/Black-Friday

London, 2017-Nov-28 — /EPR Retail News/ — New research from leading British retailer, Debenhams, reveals the amount of preparation and planning shoppers put into making sure they get the item they want on Black Friday.

The survey, which saw 2,000 shoppers across the UK questioned on their plans, found that more than a third (34%) of shoppers plan to book the day off work or have already got the day off in order to tackle the Black Friday sales. Nearly half (44%) of men have, or are planning to, book the day off work compared to just a quarter (24%) of women.

When it comes to planning for the ‘big weekend’, one in ten (12%) admitted they started thinking about what they wanted to buy 4-7 days before. One in 20 (6%) take it a step further compiling their wish lists a month to six weeks in advance.

Women are more likely to create a plan of action for the sales – 8% of the women spoken to in the study said that they started to pull together a wish list one to three months before the sales. Men on the other hand prefer to wait until closer to the time – a fifth (21%) left it 1-5 days before, while 4% made a snap decision on the morning.

Around the country, Londoners plan the furthest ahead – they start thinking about what they want up to three months in advance (3%). In contrast, Yorkshire and Humber residents wait until the morning of the sales (9%) to snap up a bargain.

It seems that the early bird really does catch the worm when it comes to Black Friday – more than one in ten (14%) are planning to wake up at 6am to face the sales. A further 7% admit that they will be setting their alarm for 5am while 6% will be staying awake until midnight in order to bag a bargain. Shoppers in Sheffield and Southampton will be first up; they are planning to rise at 2.42am to scour the sales.

The majority of shoppers (23%) have given themselves a budget of £151-£250 during the Black Friday sales. Southampton shoppers have the biggest pot (£351-£400) followed by those in Leeds (£251-£300). More than a tenth (13%) are spending more than last year, while 74% have budgeted the same amount. Men are more likely to have increased their funds (15%) while women have reduced theirs (13%).

The main beneficiaries of the bargains are the people buying them (51%), followed by partners (39%) and children (34%). Men are most likely to shop for themselves (53%) compared to women (50%).

Top ten purchases are:

  1. Personal technology
  2. Toys for the kids
  3. Coats
  4. Beauty purchases
  5. Boots
  6. Designer clothes
  7. Box sets and computer games
  8. Handbags
  9. Soft furnishings (curtains, bedding, cushions)
  10. White goods

Richard Cristofoli, Managing Director of Beauty and Marketing at Debenhams, said: “Since arriving in the UK four years ago, Black Friday has become a formidable fixture in the country’s shopping calendar. Last year the event was the biggest day of trade in Debenhams’ 239 year history.

Our customers tell us that they love the glamour and excitement that Debenhams offers through including great deals on top beauty brands, exclusive Designer fashions as well as branded electricals and toys in the event.”

All of Debenhams Black Friday deals can be found here: debenhams.com/Black-Friday

Notes to Editors

Debenhams is a leading international, department store destination with a proud British heritage which trades out of around 250 stores across 25 countries and is available online in more than 60 countries.  Debenhams gives its customers around the world a unique, differentiated and exclusive mix of own brands, international brands and concessions.

Debenhams has been investing in design for over 20 years through its exclusive Designers at Debenhams portfolio of brands.  Current designers include Abigail Ahern, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, Sadie Frost and Jemima French, Patrick Grant, Henry Holland, Julien Macdonald, Savannah Miller, Jenny Packham, Aliza Reger, John Rocha, Ashley Thomas, Justin Thornton and Thea Bregazzi and Matthew Williamson.

For more information, visit www.Debenhams.com

CONTACTS:
For more information please contact:

Shannen Doherty
Shannen.doherty@debenhams.com

Rebecca Maund
Rebecca.maund@debenhams.com

Debenhams Press Office
020 3549 6420
press.office@debenhams.com

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams research: over a quarter (28%) of Brits didn’t know their partners’ dress or suit size

Debenhams research: over a quarter (28%) of Brits didn’t know their partners’ dress or suit size

 

  • Quarter of all Brits have argued with their partner after receiving the wrong sized gift
  • Over a quarter (28%) don’t know their partner’s dress or suit size and one in ten can’t name their shoe size (13%)
  • Nearly half of men (46%) do not know their partners bra size, some even struggle to state their partner’s eye colour!
  • One in four (24%) don’t buy clothes or shoes for their partner at Christmas in order to avoid ‘domestics’

London, 2017-Nov-28 — /EPR Retail News/ — A quarter of all Brits have argued with their partner after receiving the wrong sized piece of clothing as a gift, according to the latest research by leading British retailer, Debenhams.

The high street giant interviewed couples – who had been together an average for 20 years – to see whether they knew, unprompted, their other halfs’ dress size, eye colour and bra size. The findings form part of Debenhams current #youshall campaign which encourages shoppers to find their ‘fairytale Christmas’ and depicts the tale of a young couple who fall in love following a chance meeting when the woman loses her shoe on a train in a TV ad.

Of the 2,000 people interviewed, over a quarter (28%) didn’t know their partners’ dress or suit size. Women were slightly more clued up with one in four women (25%) struggling to remember their partners’ shirt size leaving men further in the dark with a third (31%) clueless when it comes to naming their girlfriend or wifes’ dress size.

Things get marginally better when it comes to footwear with only one in ten (13%) unable to name their partners’ shoe size. Partners in London are the most ignortant on shoe sizes, with almost a fifth (18%) unable to find a shoe that fits.

Typically when it comes to men knowing their partners’ bra size, nearly half (46%) of all men draw a blank. In Scotland and Northern Ireland over half of the men (60% and 52% respectively) don’t know their a, b, c’s from their back sizes and cannot name the size that their partners wears.

Even more concerning, despite spending two decades together together one in ten men (11%) don’t even know the colour of their partners’ eyes.

Managing Director for Beauty and Marketing, Richard Cristofoli at Debenhams, says: “Debenhams has created an amazing footwear range including a limited edition shoe by designer, Jenny Packham.   With a little forethought gift givers can avoid Christmas Day disappointment by simply taking a shot on their phone of their partner’s favourite ahead of the shopping trip.  That way we believe ‘you shall’ have a fairytale Christmas all round!”

The report details that one in four (24%), don’t buy clothes or shoes for their partner with men especially feeling nervous about making the wrong purchase. Over a third (36%) admit they don’t feel confident selecting a size from a rack of clothes compared to one in ten (13%) of women said they felt the same way.

Of those that do buy clothes for their partner, almost a quarter (24%) end up buying the wrong size and arguing about it. Men are most likely to be in the firing line, with a third (31%) facing anger if they get the wrong size. Nearly a fifth of women (18%) admitted that they had argued with their partner as a result of being presented with a wrongly sized gift.

To encourage male shoppers to get more size aware, Debenhmas has created a limited edition shoe by Debenhams Designer, Jenny Packham, which features in the TV ad campaign and is designed specially to make the recipient feel like a real princess. The crystal studded stiletto, which retails at £99 has a production run of just 600. Scarcity of the item urges shoppers to ensure they purchase the right size first off to ensure that they are find a fairytale ending.

The Debenhams #youshall campaign sees stores up and down the country converted into a glittering ballroom scene. Across the company’s 175 UK and ROI store estate, more than 326,500 metres of glitter ribbon, 242,500 baubles, 12,500 twinkle tree lights and 100,000 stars have been used to set the festive scene.

You Shall Find Your Fairytale Christmas

Notes to Editors

Debenhams is a leading international, department store destination with a proud British heritage which trades out of around 250 stores across 25 countries and is available online in more than 60 countries.  Debenhams gives its customers around the world a unique, differentiated and exclusive mix of own brands, international brands and concessions.

Debenhams has been investing in design for over 20 years through its exclusive Designers at Debenhams portfolio of brands.  Current designers include Abigail Ahern, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, Sadie Frost and Jemima French, Patrick Grant, Henry Holland, Julien Macdonald, Savannah Miller, Jenny Packham, Aliza Reger, John Rocha, Ashley Thomas, Justin Thornton and Thea Bregazzi and Matthew Williamson.

For more information, visit www.Debenhams.com

CONTACTS:
For more information please contact:

Shannen Doherty
Shannen.doherty@debenhams.com

Rebecca Maund
Rebecca.maund@debenhams.com

Debenhams Press Office
020 3549 6420
press.office@debenhams.com

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams unveils Home SS18

Debenhams unveils Home SS18

 

London, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — RJR. John Rocha puts a fresh spin on his signature artisan craftsmanship style for SS18. The new collection welcomes the introduction of delicate watercolour florals on crisp white ceramics and botanical appliqué bed linens. The seasonal colour palette is brought to life in the form of beautiful embossed and crocheted textiles in shades of sage and sherbet. Earthenware vases in soft pastels lend a natural, organic undertone to the range, bringing together a beautiful combination of simple, organic textures and calm ethereal beauty.

Star by Julien Macdonald returns for SS18 bursting with all of the decadent glamour and high fashion opulence we have come to expect from the designer. Shimmering metallic accessories and intricately beaded cushions bring an effortless touch of opulence to any room. Textiles are given a fresh revival with buttery-yellow and silver roses for a new direction on the designer’s signature boudoir look. Intricate ruffles and feather finishes add a further feel of luxury to the collection, bringing a refreshing update to the home for the new season.

The J by Jasper Conran collection combines contemporary design with statement colour for the ultimate in refined, modern luxury. Rich velvets and asymmetric prints in expensive golden hues and classic deep navy appear throughout the home in the form of luxurious bed linens, cushions and throws. Marble and copper kitchen pieces offer an expensive yet understated update to dining for SS18. The successful J by Jasper Conran lighting range is also extended for the new season with the introduction of the deep wooden Nordic influenced pendant and retro look table lamp. The fresh palette and new materials bring the designer’s strikingly bold, catwalk inspired collection into the new season in a subtle yet impactful fashion.

Make a bold statement for SS18 with MW by Matthew Williamson. The eclectic collection combines opulent contrasting prints and rich sumptuous texture, underpinned by dramatic jewel tones for a glamourous take on the tropical bohemian look. The Monkey is replaced by the Birds of Paradise as the character of the summer season, appearing on bright contrasting bed linens and vibrant wall art. A strong sense of fun and extravagance runs throughout the range. Flamingo candle holders, gold embellished pineapple cushions and colour pop jewellery boxes are simple yet effective additions to add an element of tropical luxury to any room for the new season.

Abigail Ahern has brought her uniquely creative touch to a new range of nautical inspired homeware for the Abigail Ahern/EDITION SS18 range. Drawing on her inspiration from around the world, the new collection receives a seasonal update with the introduction of a variety of new, lovable characters. Forrest green puffin lamps and pompom cushions, unexpected metallic whale planters and unique sea urchin vases continue the unmistakably quirky, striking look the range has become synonymous with. Abigail’s faux botanicals also make a welcomed return for the new season, complementing the mainline collection perfectly. The range exudes exotic nautical vibes with a hint of ethnic glamour for the new season.

The style influence of the Debenhams Hastings collection is a modern take on traditional nautical design with a fresh, contemporary twist. This comprehensive collection offers subtle, current updates for every room in the home. Seasonal dining is given an artisan feel with the introduction of abstract printed picnicwear, natural, rustic kitchen pieces and statement glass accessories. Classic printed textiles and traditional glass lanterns receive a touch of character with water weathered glass and natural textured jute. The modern maritime theme breathes fresh life throughout the home for SS18.

Watercolour pastel toned bedding, charmingly sweet tea party pieces and clean, bold lighting make up Debenhams latest homewear offering, Cosmo. Splashes of baby pink and muted blue, complimented with flicks of glamourous gold markings, fun pom-pom details and rich mohair textures bring to life a design-led collection of decorative accessories, textiles and bathroom designs. Lighting is abstract, combining interesting shapes and soft pastels. Layer together for a real pop of character or introduce individually for a more grown up touch of luxe.

CONTACTS:
For further information, sample and image requests please contact the Debenhams PR Team:
press.office@debenhams.com
020 3549 6420

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams unveils Womenswear SS18

Debenhams unveils Womenswear SS18

 

LONDON, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Studio by Preen launches a range of timeless, premium statement dresses for SS18. Beautifully hand-etched florals sit back with bold block colours. Clashing colourways combined with Preen’s eponymous floral prints and reworked fabrications create a collection for every summer occasion. Hero pieces include the silk sulphur yellow and parrot blue silk floral dress and the lilac drop waist smock dress.

Vibrant tones of paprika red, sulphur yellow, bright green and brilliant pink inspire the palette at J by Jasper Conran this season. Fluid sateens, polished cotton, structured poplin and premium knitwear are cut into the seasons silhouettes; waisted full skirts, high straight necklines, low backs and relaxed tailoring. Prints are upscaled with bold stripes, abstract prints and meadow florals, referencing the catwalk trends. Key pieces include the rainbow block print full skirt and block colour trouser suit.

The RJR. John Rocha collection presents a relaxed monochromatic palette with hand crafted finishes reflective of the designers’ core handwriting. Silhouettes are softer this season with delicate frills, romantic pussy bows and feminine sleeve details. Whimsical hand painted florals add an element of colour and true femininity to the collection. Key items include the trouser suit and floral tie midi dress.

Impactful and intricate red carpet dresses bring the Hollywood WOW factor to the Star by Julien Macdonald collection. Decadent beading, contour panelling and bodycon silhouettes reference the elevated glamour seen on the catwalk. Neon brights and digital prints are combined with key design details. Chains, lace and studs add drama to daytime dressing. Tailoring returns for SS18 with shoulder sharp blazers, tuxedo dresses and signature stud finishes.

SS18’s No.1 Jenny Packham collection epitomises opulence for the new season. Intricate embroideries, shimmering fabrics and bright summer florals create the ultimate look for true occasion dressing. Head to toe sequin styles are key for SS18, including the “hero” hand beaded mustard floor sweeping gown. Delicate hand painted florals in simple silhouettes and complementary separates are presented in Jenny’s elegant handwriting for a fresh take on occasionwear.

With a floral explosion of bold blooms comes the new season MW by Matthew Williamson collection. Bohemian maxi dresses and chic jumpsuits in soft pinks and navy undertones are adorned in coloured English blooms. Beading and decorative embellishment add Matthew’s handwriting to a range of beautiful summer party looks.

Summer nostalgia encapsulates the Nine by Savannah Miller collection this season. The wrap dress is a must in sunshine yellow and sky blue cloud print; simply add the Victoriana lace blouse and denim for a relaxed vibe. Stripes add punch to separates whilst soft sequins add shimmer to the collection. Key pieces include Savannah’s signature embroidered jacket and the lace kimono.

Electric florals juxtapose standout stripes for H! by Henry Holland this season. Poppy prints are given a true Henry twist with a “bug” detail found in the summer tee and asymmetric dress. Henry’s signature slogan tees also make a welcome return with a fun jitterbug nod. Must have pieces for SS18 include the floral trouser suit and glitter stripe pleated skirt for eye-catching street style dressing.

Sweet milkshake tones serve as inspiration for the Red Herring range this season in an assortment of sizzling summer prints. From pretty postcard details on co-ords, vibrant parrot motifs on sundresses and zesty lemon details on the must have rain mac. Embellishments add texture to the collection, with pearl decorated denim and broderie anglaise finishes and make a perfect combination for summer dressing.

Colour drenching makes a powerful statement at Principles. The lilac blazer suit is a must have power dressing piece this season and for purists, a white broderie anglaise shirt dress. Palm prints in soft pastel tones offer a tropical feel enhanced with sorbet stripes. In contrast, monochromes and bold brights provide an alternative look with retro block prints and multi-stripe separates.

SS18 sees the launch of prom for Debut, a collection filled with head turning statement looks. From all over sequin, floor sweeping gowns to hand beaded tulle dresses and vibrant cutwork lace dresses, the range offers a variety of classic and contemporary prom inspired looks. Available in a rainbow palette of sorbet pastels and summer brights, making the collection perfect for all summer occasions.

CONTACTS:
For further information, sample and image requests please contact the Debenhams PR Team:
press.office@debenhams.com
020 3549 6420

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams launches new mobile site for UK customers

Debenhams launches new mobile site for UK customers

 

  • Debenhams is strengthening its multi-channel offering with the launch of a new mobile site for UK customers that brings together the best features of mobile apps with the broad reach of mobile web
  • The Progressive Web App (PWA), which uses Google-backed technology, creates a smooth and streamlined app-like shopping experience online, without requiring an app store download

LONDON, 2017-Nov-20 — /EPR Retail News/ — Leading British retailer, Debenhams is strengthening its multi-channel offering with the launch of a new mobile site for UK customers that brings together the best features of mobile apps with the broad reach of mobile web.

The Progressive Web App (PWA), which uses Google-backed technology, is a key development in Debenhams digital and multi-channel strategy. The PWA creates a smooth and streamlined app-like shopping experience on the web, without requiring an app store download. The new site means that customers will be able to browse twice as fast as before.

Delivered by SapientRazorfish and Mobify, the new site went live in early October after less than four months of development.

Ross Clemmow, Managing Director Retail, Digital, Food & Events at Debenhams, said: “We have seen unprecedented growth in mobile in the last two years. Research shows that 50% of UK online retail sales are now made through mobile devices (smartphones and tablets)¹. We know customers get frustrated by a slow site, even more so on mobile, with as many as 70% admitting they would leave a site if it loaded slowly.

“The new site will transform our customer’s experience of shopping with Debenhams on their mobiles. We now have technology that not only delivers a better, faster experience but allows us to keep pace with shoppers expectations’ whilst on the move.”

Mobify CEO, Igor Faletski, said: “Debenhams recognised the need to put mobile customers first. The PWA gives them a premium online shopping experience and positions them for future growth. We’re very excited to be working with the Debenhams team.”

See the new Debenhams streamlined Progressive Web App here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ar0D4LCDcGY&feature=youtu.be

Notes to Editors

¹ https://www.imrg.org/media-and-comment/press-releases/over-half-of-online-sales-now-made-through-mobile-devices/

Debenhams is a leading international, department store destination with a proud British heritage which trades out of around 250 stores across 25 countries and is available online in more than 60 countries.  Debenhams gives its customers around the world a unique, differentiated and exclusive mix of own brands, international brands and concessions.

Debenhams has been investing in design for over 20 years through its exclusive Designers at Debenhams portfolio of brands.  Current designers include Abigail Ahern, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, Sadie Frost and Jemima French, Patrick Grant, Henry Holland, Ben de Lisi, Todd Lynn, Julien Macdonald, Savannah Miller, Jenny Packham, Aliza Reger, John Rocha, Ashley Thomas, Justin Thornton and Thea Bregazzi, Eric Van Peterson and Matthew Williamson.

For more information, visit www.Debenhams.com

CONTACTS:
Debenhams Press Office
020 3549 6420
press.office@debenhams.com

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams opens its first store in Australia

Debenhams opens its first store in Australia

 

  • The store’s small-format layout – across two storeys and 3600sqm – is the first of its kind for Debenhams and is a notable shift away from the traditional department store format in Australia.
  • David Smith, Debenhams’ Managing Director, International, said:“International expansion in key markets is a strategic priority for the business. Shoppers in Australia spend more than $5.1 billion on fashion and $8.0 billion on beauty products a year¹ – add that to the fact that we know that our offering resonates and the next logical step for the business was to open a store in Australia”.

London, 2017-Nov-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Leading British retailer, Debenhams is extending its global footprint with the opening of its first store in Australia today (24 October).

The store in Melbourne is the first site with franchise partner, Pepkor, part of the Steinhoff Group.

The store’s small-format layout – across two storeys and 3600sqm – is the first of its kind for Debenhams and is a notable shift away from the traditional department store format in Australia. The store features a unique mix of clothing and products from the retailer’s extensive portfolio of household British designer names including Jasper Conran, Julien Macdonald, Preen, Savannah Miller, Matthew Williamson and Jenny Packham. In-store services include style suite, beauty rooms and café.

David Smith, Debenhams’ Managing Director, International, said: “International expansion in key markets is a strategic priority for the business. More than 20 million shoppers visit our 175 UK and ROI stores each year and this includes a huge number of Australian consumers.

“Shoppers in Australia spend more than $5.1 billion on fashion and $8.0 billion on beauty products a year¹ – add that to the fact that we know that our offering resonates and the next logical step for the business was to open a store in Australia.”

Graham Dean, Managing Director of Debenhams Australia, said the international retailer has brought more than two centuries of experience and success to the opening of Debenhams St Collins Lane.

“The opening of Debenhams St Collins Lane is an evolution of our success with the Australian market, with online sales to Australia already the largest outside of the United Kingdom. We have a track record of getting retail right – Debenhams St Collins Lane is not a traditional store, and we are confident in this new offering in a popular area of the Melbourne CBD.”

Debenhams St Collins Lane opened yesterday and joins a portfolio of 243 Debenhams stores across 28 countries worldwide. The store will trade in line with CDB trading hours.

CONTACTS:
Debenhams Press Office
020 3549 6420
press.office@debenhams.com

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams to trial instore fitness centres Sweat! in three stores from early 2018

Debenhams to trial instore fitness centres Sweat! in three stores from early 2018

 

LONDON, 2017-Nov-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Leading British retailer, Debenhams, has today (27/10/17) announced that it is launching a trial of instore fitness centres with gym specialists, Sweat! as part of the Debenhams Redesigned strategy to make stores a Destination for Social Shopping.

The partnership, set to launch in three stores from early 2018 will give customers more reasons to visit Debenhams stores more often and will attract a younger female base. Founded by entrepreneur, Frank Reed, Sweat! offers an aspirational gym environment at a slight price premium to budget gyms. Facilities in the brightly branded gym space include dedicated studios for spinning and aerobics, innovative fitness programmes such as The Matrix along with a full range of free weights and Technogym equipment.

Whilst offering customers a vibrant gym environment, Debenhams products will also be on offer to suit health and fitness lifestyles. The relationship sees Debenhams broaden its reach to the Sweat! customer base with cross-marketing opportunities planned such as enrolling each Sweat! member to the Debenhams Beauty Club.

Sergio Bucher, CEO of Debenhams said: “In Spring we detailed the Debenhams Redesigned strategy stating that we would look to work with strategic partners to deliver our plan.  We believe that by teaming with Sweat! we will optimise the space that is available in some of our stores whilst offering an attractive and credible leisure experience to customers.  The partnership is a step closer to establishing Debenhams as a Destination for leisure experiences and gives customers more reasons to visit us more often.”

Frank Reed, founder of Sweat! said: “Partnering with Debenhams provides Sweat! with access to attractive locations and the opportunity to engage with the retailers established loyal customer base. UK gym usage is forecast to reach the 20% penetration rates achieved by parts of Europe and the US by 2020 and by providing a differentiated product in a place that is convenient to customers we anticipate that we will capitalise on growth for leisure experiences.”

Sweat! currently attracts 600-800 visits to each of its five gyms each day with a 55% female customer base visiting gyms 2-3 times per week. The gyms are inclusive and welcoming environments manned by motivated and energetic teams.  Sweat! is the newest offering from Reed who previously founded LivingWell, Virgin Active and Virgin Pulse.

Notes to Editors

¹2017 State of the UK Fitness Industry Report – http://www.leisuredb.com/blog/2017/5/5/2017-state-of-the-uk-fitness-industry-report-out-now

Debenhams is a leading international, department store destination with a proud British heritage which trades out of around 250 stores across 25 countries and is available online in more than 60 countries.  Debenhams gives its customers around the world a unique, differentiated and exclusive mix of own brands, international brands and concessions.

Debenhams has been investing in design for over 20 years through its exclusive Designers at Debenhams portfolio of brands.  Current designers include Abigail Ahern, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, Sadie Frost and Jemima French, Patrick Grant, Henry Holland, Ben de Lisi, Todd Lynn, Julien Macdonald, Savannah Miller, Jenny Packham, Aliza Reger, John Rocha, Ashley Thomas, Justin Thornton and Thea Bregazzi, Eric Van Peterson and Matthew Williamson.

For more information, visit www.Debenhams.com

CONTACTS:
Debenhams Press Office
020 3549 6420
press.office@debenhams.com

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams celebrates the opening of its Wolverhampton Store

Debenhams celebrates the opening of its Wolverhampton Store

Wolves FC superstar, Jody Craddock, City Mayor and local hero cut the ribbon to open brand new Debenhams Wolverhampton store

LONDON, 2017-Oct-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Former Wolves star, Jody Craddock, local resident Ann Guest and The Mayor of Wolverhampton and Councillor, Elias Masih Mattu, stepped into the spotlight today (Thursday 12thOctober) to cut the ribbon to the new Debenhams Wolverhampton store at the Mander Centre.

More than 2000 locals queued outside the store to get the first glimpse of the brand new three-storey shopping destination, which is home to a fabulous collection of fashion, beauty and home.

Ann Guest (76) was selected by the store team to officiate the opening, alongside Jody, following a call out for local residents to nominate someone who deserved a pampering makeover at the store. Guest was nominated by her friend, Christine Crazie, as a result of her ongoing work within the local Spring Valley estate.

Ann, who suffers from serious back pain, is a regular sight around the area either organising local fayres to raise money for families to go on days out or regularly visiting the homes of people that are ill or unable to go outside. She has worked tirelessly over the years to promote the interests of her neighbours and to ensure that they have their say over the services that they receive.

Jody Craddock said, “Ann is a very special lady and it was a pleasure to open the new Debenhams Wolverhampton store alongside her.

“She looked absolutely fabulous in her new outfit which was picked out as part of the makeover this morning, and I hope she enjoyed being pampered as she truly deserves it.”

The 93,000 square foot Debenhams Wolverhampton store is home to a variety of different departments, including ranges from Designers at Debenhams including Jasper Conran, John Rocha and Savannah Miller. The amazing new beauty hall means that customers can get their hands on exciting brands such as Urban Decay, Kat Von D, Estee Lauder and Buxom.

There is also the chance to sit down, relax, and grab a bite to eat with friends and family at the new Loaf & Bloom restaurant. Other highlights include a brow bar, a bra fit service, travel money and free Wifi.

Local hero, Ann Guest, said: “I had such a lovely morning, picking out new season outfits and cutting the ribbon to the store.

“I’d like to say thank you to my friend, Christine, for nominating me for the prize. I love living in Wolverhampton, it has such an amazing neighbourly spirit and I’m sure the new Debenhams will be a focal point for the community from now on.”

Alison Young, store manager for Debenhams in Wolverhampton said: “It’s fantastic to finally open our doors to the public, having been working behind the scenes for so long.

“It was amazing to see so many members of the local community outside the store this morning, and it was a pleasure to have Ann cut the ribbon alongside Jody, she looked absolutely beautiful.

“We have a team of 150 customer service superstars working across the fantastic fashion, beauty and home departments in store, and they can’t wait to meet our new customers.”

– ends –

Notes to Editors

About Debenhams
Debenhams is a leading international, multi-channel brand with a proud British heritage which trades out of more than 260 stores across 27 countries.  Debenhams gives its customers around the world a unique, differentiated and exclusive mix of own brands, international brands and concessions.

The business serves over 19 million customers with over 5 million visits online per week and deliveries to 60 countries.

In the UK, Debenhams is the market leader in beauty, handbags, occasion wear and swimwear and has a top three market position in womenswear and menswear and top ten share in childrenswear.

Debenhams has been investing in British design for over 20 years through its exclusive Designers at Debenhams portfolio of brands.  Current designers include Abigail Ahern, Savannah Miller, Ted Baker, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, FrostFrench, Patrick Grant, Henry Holland, Ben de Lisi, Todd Lynn, Julien Macdonald, Jenny Packham, Preen, Giles Deacon, Aliza Reger, John Rocha, Ashley Thomas and Matthew Williamson.

For more information, visit www.Debenhams.com

CONTACTS

For more information and imagery please contact:
Debenhams Press Office: 020 3549 6420 / press.office@debenhams.com

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Debenhams manager Simon Weeks joined ‘cycle to work’ crusade for a military charity fundraiser

Debenhams manager Simon Weeks joined ‘cycle to work’ crusade for a military charity fundraiser

Local charity supporter, Simon Weeks goes the extra mile for Help for Heroes 

LONDON, 2017-Sep-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — A local charity supporter went the extra mile for a military charity last week, cycling more than 60 miles in a unique fundraiser.

Simon Weeks, a warehouse transition manager at Debenhams, rode from his home in Cambridge to Debenhams London Support Centre in a unique ‘cycle to work’ crusade. His impressive ride came after a call from the business for fundraising volunteers to join an organised sponsored bike ride for military charity, Help for Heroes in the capital.

Simon was happy to take part in a challenge for the Charity, thanks to his own family’s connection to the Armed Forces. He said: “My grandad joined the Royal Navy aged just 17 and a year later was involved in the D-Day landings. Help for Heroes provides valuable support to service personnel and military veterans who have sustained injuries while serving in the British Armed Forces, so it is a charity close to my heart.”

With years of biking experience Simon, and his wife, decided to cycle into London before the event.

Simon said: “My trusty second-hand bike and I, have covered hundreds of miles through Laos and Cambodia, so Cambridge to London wasn’t too big a challenge! We set out Tuesday evening and decided to camp overnight. Unfortunately, we set up camp in the middle of Storm Aileen so sleep wasn’t on the cards. It was really cold and incredibly wet but we were both determined to take part in the event.”

After arriving in London, Simon and a Debenhams team of office workers then cycled around Regents Park twice, to help Debenhams raise more than £1.5m for the charity.

Speaking on Simon’s achievement, Mandy Lloyd, Head of Partnerships at Help for Heroes said: “We already receive fantastic support from Debenhams to benefit our ex-serving me and women but Simon really did take things to another level!  We are really bowled over and hugely grateful to individuals such as Simon who champion our cause.”

“Help for Heroes is hugely grateful to Debenhams and all those involved in their recent fundraising activities and everything they have done to support the Charity.  We rely heavily on the generous donations raised which directly helps rebuild lives.  We’d like to thank everyone who has donated and helped support our beneficiaries and hope everyone has had lots of fun too!”

In addition to staff fundraising activity, Debenhams also has a collection of four specially designed Help for Heroes t-shirts. The t-shirts are priced at £20 and are available in store and online. Debenhams has pledged to donate all profits from the sale of each item to Help for Heroes.

To view Debenhams’ Help for Heroes merchandise, visit: http://www.debenhams.com/men/help-for-heroes

 

– ends – 

Notes to Editors

About the Debenhams Foundation
At Debenhams we are committed to a number of charities. In 2013 we set up our own charity, The Debenhams Foundation, and currently work with including, Help for Heroes, BBC Children in Need, Breast Cancer Now, Make A Wish Foundation and the Disasters and Emergencies Committee. We chose these charities following feedback from our staff and customers.

For more information, visit our Debenhams Foundation page.

CONTACTS

For more information and imagery please contact:
Debenhams Press Office: 020 3549 6420 / press.office@debenhams.com

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Debenhams announces former Wolves captain Jody Craddock to open the new Wolverhampton store on 12th October 2017

Jody Craddock of Wolverhampton Wanderers

LONDON, 2017-Sep-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — Debenhams has today announced that former Wolves star and captain Jody Craddock will be opening the new Wolverhampton store, alongside a specially chosen local hero on Thursday 12th October 2017.

Craddock, who played for Wolverhampton Wanderers for ten years and was Captain when the team won the Championship to secure promotion to the Premier League in 2008, said: “I am really excited to kick off Debenhams Wolverhampton new store opening and see what fashions are in-store. Having worn shorts for over 20 years, I am looking forward to getting suited and booted for the event.”

Jody has maintained close links with Wolves since retirement and, an accomplished artist, has penned this season’s programme covers with sketches of club legends.  And he is now helping with search for a ‘local hero’ to  open the store alongside him.   Debenhams is searching for one deserving local resident to receive an exclusive styling session with a personal shopper before cutting the ribbon to open the store.

Speaking on the search, Jody Craddock, said: “We are asking friends, families and community members to nominate the everyday heroes of Wolverhampton who are deserving of recognition and reward ahead of the store opening.

“There are many ordinary people who do extraordinary things in local communities and we want to take time to give them the VIP treatment they deserve.”

The prize also includes a beauty makeover, in addition to £200 to spend on Debenhams exclusive ranges including Star by Julien Macdonald, J by Jasper Conran, No1. by Jenny Packham and Studio by Preen, and the leading beauty brands in the fantastic beauty hall.

Nominations are being accepted up to Friday 29th September and should include contact details for the nominee, a photograph, as well as the reasons for the nomination. These can then be sent via email to ainsley.piggott@havas.com, or in writing to: Havas PR, 26 Palmerston Place, Edinburgh, EH12 5AL

Alison Young, store manager for the new Debenhams Wolverhampton store, said: “The team and I can’t wait to introduce ourselves to our customers and show them the store.

“Wolverhampton has a strong community spirit, so we’re really looking forward to seeing the entries and hearing about all the great people that live in the area.”

Debenhams Wolverhampton has created more than 150 jobs in the local area and is part of the redevelopment programme taking place at The Mander Centre, which is set for completion in Autumn 2017.

Terms and Conditions

  • Winner must be happy to be involved in publicity and available on opening day
  • Judges discretion is final
  • No cash alternative for prize

CONTACTS

For more information please contact: Press.Office@Debenhams.com

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Debenhams calls on Wolverhampton community to nominate a local hero to open brand new store

LONDON, 2017-Sep-08 — /EPR Retail News/ — Calling all Wolverhampton superstars! Debenhams is on the hunt for a local hero to open the new store on Thursday 12th October 2017.

The winner of the search will be get a preview of the store before it opens, receive an exclusive styling session with a personal shopper and have the honour of cutting the ribbon.

The prize also includes a beauty makeover, in addition to £200 to spend on Debenhams’ exclusive ranges from designers such as the Star by Julien Macdonald range, J by Jasper Conran, No1. by Jenny Packham and Studio by Preen, as well as on leading beauty brands in the fantastic beauty hall.

Nominations are being accepted up to Friday 29th September and should include contact details for the nominee, a photograph, as well as the reasons for the nomination. These can then be sent via email to ainsley.piggott@havas.com, or in writing to: Havas PR, 26 Palmerston Place, Edinburgh, EH12 5AL

Alison Young, store manager for the new Debenhams Wolverhampton store, said: “The team and I can’t wait to introduce ourselves to our customers and show them the store.

“Wolverhampton has a strong community spirit, so we’re really looking forward to seeing the entries and hearing about all the great people that live in the area.”

Debenhams Wolverhampton has created more than 150 jobs in the local area and is part of the redevelopment programme taking place at The Mander Centre, which is set for completion in Autumn 2017.

Terms and Conditions

  • Winner must be happy to be involved in publicity and available on opening day
  • Judges discretion is final
  • No cash alternative for prize

– Ends –

Notes to Editors

About Debenhams
Debenhams is a leading international, multi-channel brand with a proud British heritage which trades out of more than 260 stores across 27 countries.  Debenhams gives its customers around the world a unique, differentiated and exclusive mix of own brands, international brands and concessions.

The business serves over 19 million customers with over 5 million visits online per week and deliveries to 60 countries.

In the UK, Debenhams  is the market leader in beauty, handbags, occasion wear and swimwear and has a top three market position in womenswear and menswear and top ten share in childrenswear.

Debenhams has been investing in British design for over 20 years through its exclusive Designers at Debenhams portfolio of brands.  Current designers include Abigail Ahern, Savannah Miller, Ted Baker, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, FrostFrench, Patrick Grant, Henry Holland, Ben de Lisi, Todd Lynn, Julien Macdonald, Jenny Packham, Preen, Giles Deacon, Aliza Reger, John Rocha, Ashley Thomas and Matthew Williamson.

For more information, visit www.Debenhams.com

CONTACTS

For press information please contact the Debenhams press office at Havas PR on 0161 234 9778 or email prdebenhams@havas.com

SOURCE: Debenhams Retail plc

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Nine by Savannah Miller launches its first Bridal collection available exclusively at Debenhams

Nine by Savannah Miller launches its first Bridal collection available exclusively at Debenhams

 

London, 2017-Feb-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Drawing from the success of the Nine by Savannah Miller Womenswear collection, 2017 sees the launch of the designer’s first Nine by Savannah Miller Bridal collection available exclusively at Debenhams. These beautiful bohemian designs celebrate both form and function, taking inspiration from classic British styles, adding Savannah Miller’s elegant style to create a chic bespoke collection perfect for the big day.

Available in four styles; each dress is beautifully adorned with delicate embroidery and flowing luxe sheer fabrications in two classic colour ways. Featuring distinctive detailing with flattering fits and delicate metallic finishes, each dress is lovingly made to create the picture perfect wedding gown. From structured long sleeved floor sweeping styles to free spirited dramatic draping, this collection is sure to make every bride feel a million dollars on her big day, without the designer price tag.

Debuting at Debenhams stores and online from mid-January 2017 this collection is sure to make every bride’s fairy-tale wedding a reality.

About Debenhams

Debenhams is a leading international, multi-channel brand with a proud British heritage which trades out of more than 240 stores across 27 countries.  Debenhams gives its customers around the world a unique, differentiated and exclusive mix of own brands, international brands and concessions.

In the UK, Debenhams has a top three market position in womenswear and menswear and a top ten share in childrenswear.  It holds the number two market position in premium health and beauty.

Debenhams has been investing in British design for 21 years through its exclusive Designers at Debenhams portfolio of brands.  Current designers include Abigail Ahern, Savannah Miller, Ted Baker, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, FrostFrench, Patrick Grant, Henry Holland, Ben de Lisi, Todd Lynn, Julien Macdonald, Jenny Packham, Preen, Giles Deacon, Aliza Reger, John Rocha, Ashley Thomas and Matthew Williamson.

CONTACTS:

Shona Matthews
Shona.Matthews@debenhams.com

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams presents an array of romantic range of lingerie and nightwear this Valentine’s Day

Debenhams presents an array of romantic range of lingerie and nightwear this Valentine’s Day

 

London, 2017-Feb-07 — /EPR Retail News/ — Presenting an array of lingerie and nightwear, fall in love with Debenhams this Valentine’s Day with their romantic range full of fanciful floral’s and flowing frills.

Boasting a range of seductive styles, whether you choose to reveal or conceal. Treat yourself to a super soft kimono from B by Ted Baker; fall head over heads into a contemporary two piece from the Nine by Savannah Miller collection or own the underwear to outerwear trend on the ultimate night of date nights with the luxurious range of lace bodies and bralets from Reger by Janet Reger.

With prices starting from just £10, they’re almost too dreamy for bed…

Available from Debenhams http://www.debenhams.com/
All imagery featured is available on http://www.prshots.com/Debenhams

CONTACTS:
Elsa.Heron@debenhams.com

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams showcases Julien Macdonald’s home collection

Debenhams showcases Julien Macdonald’s home collection

 

London, 2017-Feb-04 — /EPR Retail News/ — Fabulously decadent, Julien Macdonald offers a glamourous statement for the home this season.

A key trend for SS17, Julien has introduced accents of blush pink and delicate textures, bringing a more calming sense of serenity.

Inspired by the natural shimmer of mother-of-pearl, the new beautiful collection of iridescent decorative accessories and pearlescent glassware are the ultimate touch of elegance and subtle lustre for the home.

CONTACTS:
susan.bedingfield@debenhams.com

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams will make you go la la for yellow this Spring/Summer 2017

Debenhams will make you go la la for yellow this Spring/Summer 2017

 

London, 2017-Jan-31 — /EPR Retail News/ — As the award winning blockbuster La La Land hits cinemas, it seems yellow is definitely the key colour for this spring.

Get ready to dance and twirl away in sweeping maxi dresses and flowing skirts. From swimwear to sunglasses, channel the good-vibes while jazzing up your wardrobe with floral’s and stripes. The Designers at Debenhams are ready to make you go la la for yellow this SS17.

Contact:

Elsa.Heron@debenhams.com

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams launches Nine by Savannah Miller ‘Athleisure’ range

Debenhams launches Nine by Savannah Miller ‘Athleisure’ range

 

London, 2016-Dec-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Introducing Debenhams first ‘Athleisure’ range, January 2017 sees the launch of the Nine by Savannah Miller ‘Athleisure’ range available exclusively at Debenhams.

Taking inspiration from classic ballet shapes and colour palettes the Nine by Savannah Miller collection celebrates Savannah’s bohemian style. From flowing fluid silhouettes to full body catsuits, featuring distinctive detailing with flattering fits, each item is made to provide ultimate comfort and style perfect to take from Pilates to lounge wear.

This contemporary on trend collection boasts breathable panels in supportive durable fabrications and lightweight styles in a muted colour palette with abstract designs in peppery greys and blush tones. Ideal to take from gym to coffee with the girls, this range is sure to make every gym bunny feel able to take on every challenge, without the designer price tag.

Available from mid- January at www.debenhams.com

Prices start from £18

Debenhams is a leading international, multi-channel brand with a proud British heritage which trades out of more than 240 stores across 27 countries.  Debenhams gives its customers around the world a unique, differentiated and exclusive mix of own brands, international brands and concessions.

In the UK, Debenhams has a top three market position in womenswear and menswear and a top ten share in childrenswear.  It holds the number two market position in premium health and beauty.

Debenhams has been investing in British design for 21 years through its exclusive Designers at Debenhams portfolio of brands.  Current designers include Abigail Ahern, Savannah Miller, Ted Baker, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, FrostFrench, Patrick Grant, Henry Holland, Ben de Lisi, Todd Lynn, Julien Macdonald, Jenny Packham, Preen, Giles Deacon, Aliza Reger, John Rocha, Ashley Thomas and Matthew Williamson.

CONTACTS:
Shona Matthews
Shona.Matthews@debenhams.com

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams reveals designers for its Spring Summer 2017 collection

Debenhams reveals designers for its Spring Summer 2017 collection
Debenhams reveals designers for its Spring Summer 2017 collection

 

Denmark London, 2016-Dec-05 — /EPR Retail News/ — Debenhams celebrates its designer credentials for Spring Summer 2017, with a portfolio of iconic designers creating premium design and affordable fashion to the high street.  Debenhams’ Red Herring and Debut brands continue to sit alongside designer names and deliver key seasonal trends and elegant occasionwear.

Vibrant tones of Havana inspire a palette of red, rum, banana, black and white for the J by Jasper Conran SS17 range where crisp cottons and chambray are cut elegantly into simple summer silhouettes. Scale and proportion are key with oversize ginghams, large pocket detail and supersize striping on the longer midi length; the new hemline this season.  Deep Med blues, sun-bleached pinks and Bordeaux wine red deliver the elegance of St. Tropez in the sixties where floral embroideries are carefully crafted and deckchair stripes are reworked on organza. Key pieces include the bold stripe skirt, organza blouse and floral embroidered skirt.

Cuban heat inspires a sultry mood for Star by Julien Macdonald where colour explodes and clashes in hot tones of pink, red and orange for a true Latino flavour.  Romantic ruffles, exposed shoulders and sharp tailoring combine for a fiesta to remember. Must-have pieces include the high split wide leg pants, hot pink tailored suit and frill cropped blouse.

Taking inspiration from John Rocha’s retrospective archive, the RJR.John Rocha collection epitomises effortless romance and feminity.   Pretty, soft textures, lace and smooth satins mix with standout florals, vintage inspired embroideries and the iconic poppy create a modern take on SS17 romantic dressing. Key items include the embroidered sweat, tea dress and high waisted jeans.

Inspired by summer days in the desert Principles by Ben de Lisi presents a sumptuous palette of pink hues anchored back with navy and ivory. Prints are block coloured and bold with spliced stripes and organic palms. The silhouette is clean and modern whilst pleating, fluted sleeves luxe textures, compact fabrications and silky hammered satins give a softer edge. Key pieces include the trouser co-ord, soft trench and colour block dress.

Beautiful florals, lace and embroidery give a modern Prairie feel to the new season Nine by Savannah Miller collection delivered in a pretty palette of lavender, pink and pastel blue with pops of vibrant orange and yellow.  The range is overflowing with summer dresses; and hero items include the embroidered midi and the daisy maxi whilst the sequin jacket, washed denims and frill blouses offer versatile separates perfect for those hazy spring days.

Boyfriend silhouettes reign supreme this season for H! by Henry Holland where sweat dresses, acid denim and  oversized tees  take centre stage. Patriotic primary hues paired with soft pinks and khaki deliver a casual athleisure vibe where the tracksuit is key. Vegas cowboys and Punk references deliver a sense of playfulness to the collection where ginghams, snake and grunge graffiti juxtapose with feminine lace and extreme ruffles for a girly twist. Key pieces include the tea dress, deconstructed sweat and Motorcross tee.

Red Herring provides a fun festival of colour this SS17, with an eye-popping colour palette of yellow, blue and red seen in ginghams, stripes and tropical florals. Texture is reworked with embroidery, smocking, crochet and printed lace detail for a true feminine feel. Key pieces include the culotte jumpsuit, embroidered trench and pinafore dress.

Debut introduces a veritable explosion of floral romance delivered using delicate lace, print and embroidery.  Contemporary silhouettes and premium fabrications in a pretty palette of vibrant red, ivory and blush provide an air of feminine modernity offering a stunning choice for all summer occasions. Must have pieces include the floral bardot dress.

No.1 Jenny Packham promises signature statement gowns with the addition of occasionwear separates for SS17. Delivered in a soft colour palette of ivory, blush, soft green and vintage metallic, and paired with decadent hand beading  and form fitting silhouettes; the collection oozes springtime sophistication. Key pieces include the floral embellished gown, soft sequin jacket, wide leg pants and beaded maxi skirt.

For SS17 Butterfly by Matthew Williamson occasionwear enters the tropics with bold tropical florals and exotic plant prints. Fresh tones of green and aqua contrast with hot flamingo pinks, fiery red and orange zest which fuse with summer embellishment.

Inspired by fantastical fairytales Siren by Giles presents a collection filled with dreamlike landscape prints, embroidery, contemporary couture silhouettes and modern fabrications in a palette of chic  monochromatics and china blue.  This capsule collection offers versatility in occasion dressing and key pieces include the statement super prom dress and luxe lace applique tuxedo.

Introducing Studio by Preen the collection offers a contemporary fusion of modern day wardrobe essentials infused with Preen’s signature handwriting. Ruffles, tea dresses, paper bag detailing and frilly frills are key ingredients for this modern capsule wardrobe. You can expect Preen’s playful prints too including ginghams, stripes and eye catching florals for SS17.

The Todd Lynn/Edition collection takes you on an adventurous journey where street culture fuses with punk attitude; a key feature for SS17. Styling detail is paramount where the pinafore slip dress is layered with the essential cotton stripe shirt and the deluxe studded hoodie is worn with the masculine trouser and ultimate embroidered jacket perfect to create the modern contemporary vibe.

Contact:

Director of PR
Christine Morgan
Christine.Morgan@debenhams.com
0203 549 6420

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams announces plans for new Magasin du Nord department store in Aalborg, Denmark in 2018

Debenhams announces plans for new Magasin du Nord department store in Aalborg, Denmark in 2018
Debenhams announces plans for new Magasin du Nord department store in Aalborg, Denmark in 2018

 

Magasin du Nord Store Planned in Aalborg, Denmark

London, 2016-Nov-08 — /EPR Retail News/ — Debenhams is adding a seventh site to the highly successful Magasin du Nord department store chain in Denmark with a new store planned to open in Aalborg in 2018.

The7,500 square metre site is the latest addition to Debenhams’ highly successful wholly owned department store chain in Denmark which offers fashion, beauty, homewares and gourmet foods. Located in the fourth biggest city in country the new Magasin store will be an anchor site in Aalborg’s Frils Shopping Centre.

Debenhams acquired Magasin du Nord in 2009. Performance of the chain has continued to be strong with three Magasin du Nord sites tracking in Debenhams’ top ten stores in terms of turnover.

The £12m (100m Kr) investment into the new Aalborg site promise to bring a strong department store concept to the North Jutland costumer.

Debenhams International Director David Smith said, “We are delighted to strengthen our presence in Denmark in line with our strategy to drive our international expansion. The Magasin du Nord is extremely successful with a strong mix of contemporary brands. We look forward to welcoming new customers to our product offer in Aalborg.”

Notes to Editors

About Magasin

Magasin du Nord adopted its name in 1879 previously trading under the name of Emil Vett & Co. in Aarhus.  The brand has six department stores operating in Denmark and was acquired by Debenhams in 2009.

About Debenhams

Debenhams is a leading international, multi-channel brand with a proud British heritage which trades out of more than 240 stores across 27 countries.  Debenhams gives its customers around the world a unique, differentiated and exclusive mix of own brands, international brands, and concessions.

In the UK, Debenhams has a top three market position in womenswear and menswear and a top ten share in childrenswear.  It holds the number two market position in premium health and beauty.

Debenhams has been investing in British design for 21 years through its exclusive Designers at Debenhams portfolio of brands.  Current designers include Abigail Ahern, Savannah Miller, Ted Baker, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, FrostFrench, Patrick Grant, Henry Holland, Ben de Lisi, Todd Lynn, Julien Macdonald, Jenny Packham, Stephen Jones, Preen, Giles Deacon, Aliza Reger, John Rocha, Ashley Thomas and Matthew Williamson.

CONTACTS:
Emma Brown
0203 549 7154
emma.brown@debenhams.com

Debenhams Press Office
020 3549 6420
press.office@debenhams.com

Source: Debenhams

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Australian activewear Lorna Jane launches in Debenhams

Australian activewear Lorna Jane launches in Debenhams
Australian activewear Lorna Jane launches in Debenhams

 

London, 2016-Oct-07 — /EPR Retail News/ — Australian activewear brand, Lorna Jane, is to launch six concessions across Debenhams flagship sites offering fitness and fashion collections to shoppers in Oxford Street, Birmingham, Sheffield, Manchester, Liverpool One and Glasgow.

The brand, founded by British-born fitness guru and active living advocate, Lorna Jane Clarkson in Queensland, Australia 26 years ago has already shaped the fitness and activewear market in Australia and the brand has established a network of over 200 stores worldwide.  The monthly ranges of 80-100 styles offer leading technology, expert craftsmanship and performance fabrics and include leggings, crop and tank tops, sports bras, jackets, hoodies, shorts and accessories.

The concessions will be staffed with highly trained Active Stylists, employed by the brand to offer customers a great shopping experience through expert advice on technical aspects of the product as well as to give customers access to the active living philosophy that sits at the heart of the brand and its ethos of “Move, Nourish, Believe”.

Launching from October 5th in Oxford Street, the brand will roll out across regional flagships and will also be available online from October.

On partnering with the department store, Lorna Jane Clarkson, Founder of Lorna Jane said, “As our UK expansion continues, we are very excited to bring Lorna Jane to Debenhams. The regional flagships are great environments for customers to discover the Lorna Jane brand and learn more about our Active Living Philosophy. I love designing activewear that women can wear anywhere.”

Director of External Business, Sarah Savva says, “Lorna Jane is a hugely credible brand in the feminine sports and leisure market.  Introducing performance quality activewear with such a strong brand identity will undoubtedly be a compelling offer for our customer.

“Appetite for athleisure apparel from our customer continues to be strong and by introducing Lorna Jane, along with a selection of complementary brands including; Bonds; Puma; Under Armour; Shock Absorber; and Skechers Debenhams’ has a strong branded category.”

About Debenhams

Debenhams is a leading international, multi-channel brand with a proud British heritage which trades out of more than 240 stores across 27 countries.  Debenhams gives its customers around the world a unique, differentiated and exclusive mix of own brands, international brands and concessions.

In the UK, Debenhams has a top three market position in womens wear and menswear and a top ten share in childrens wear.  It holds the number two market position in premium health and beauty.

Debenhams has been investing in British design for 21 years through its exclusive Designers at Debenhams portfolio of brands.  Current designers include Abigail Ahern, Savannah Miller, Ted Baker, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, FrostFrench, Patrick Grant, Henry Holland, Ben de Lisi, Todd Lynn, Julien Macdonald, Jenny Packham, Stephen Jones, Preen, Giles Deacon, Aliza Reger, John Rocha, Ashley Thomas and Matthew Williamson.

About Lorna Jane

The women’s fitness & lifestyle brand founded by Active Living Advocate and fashion fitness pioneer, Lorna Jane Clarkson, 25 years ago, provides industry leading technology, expert craftsmanship and hi-tech performance fabrics within each garment.

Since launching the first collection in 1989 in Brisbane, Australia the brand is now available to buy in more than 150 stores in Australia and the United States, as well as Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

Beyond the brand Lorna Jane promotes an entire lifestyle approach to Active Living by embracing the daily practice of Move Nourish Believe.  She has written and published several books on nutrition and active lifestyle.

CONTACTS:

Alison Gram
PR Manager
Alison.gram@debenhams.com

Christine Morgan
Director of PR
Christine.morgan@debenhams.com

Tel: 0203 549 6420

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams announces 170% sales increase in Kitchen Aids this September as Great British Bake Off get Brits inspired to baking once again

London, 2016-Sep-20 — /EPR Retail News/ — There is no ‘soggy bottom’ on sales of cook and bakeware at Debenhams this September – the return of the top-rating show, Great British Bake Off has fuelled a 170% sales increase in Kitchenaid’s as the British public get inspired to get baking once again.

Whilst presenters Mel and Sue have voted ‘not to follow the dough’ with the planned channel change for the show, the British public can’t get enough of the baking bug.  Kitchen scale sales are up 20% and baking gadgets including pastry brushes, whisks and spatulas are up 30%.  Whilst increases in ‘baking from scratch’ utensils are gaining favour, it is the sleek designed labour-saving kitchen gadgets which is creating the cherry on top of the store and online sales.

Director of Homes, Steve Lightfoot says, “The influence of Great British Bake Off is amazing – as soon as Paul Hollywood and Mary Berry entered the kitchen product was flying off the shelves.  Customers have definitely got the baking bug and are kitting out their kitchens with the latest gadgets.”

Popularity of the show is also evident in licensed goods.  Debenhams’ exclusive The Great British Bake Off kitchen range is also experiencing a halo effect.  The range is selling twice as fast as other gift food ranges with the hero product being the Star Baker apron.

The range which includes mugs, cake stand, timers, cake tins, tea pot with tea cup and fridge magnets with prices ranging from £7 to £15 is literally selling like hot cakes across all stores.

About Debenhams
Debenhams is a leading international, multi-channel brand with a proud British heritage which trades out of more than 240 stores across 27 countries. Debenhams gives its customers around the world a unique, differentiated and exclusive mix of own brands, international brands and concessions.

In the UK, Debenhams has a top three market position in womenswear and menswear and a top ten share in childrenswear. It holds the number two market position in premium health and beauty.

Debenhams has been investing in British design for 21 years through its exclusive Designers at Debenhams portfolio of brands. Current designers include Abigail Ahern, Savannah Miller, Ted Baker, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, FrostFrench, Patrick Grant, Henry Holland, Ben de Lisi, Todd Lynn, Julien Macdonald, Jenny Packham, Stephen Jones, Preen, Giles Deacon, Aliza Reger, John Rocha, Ashley Thomas and Matthew Williamson.

For further information:
Christine Morgan Director of PR Manager
Christine.morgan@debenhams.com
Tel: 0203 549 6420

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams’ designer Henry Holland to launch an exclusive pop-up in hip BOXPARK

Debenhams’ designer Henry Holland to launch an exclusive pop-up in hip BOXPARK
Debenhams’ designer Henry Holland to launch an exclusive pop-up in hip BOXPARK

 

London, 2016-Sep-14 — /EPR Retail News/ — New Blogger Girl Tribe Showcase AW looks with shoot by Henry in Holland

When is a Designer at Debenhams not a Designer at Debenhams? When he sets up shop on his own to target a younger, fashion customer and showcase the essence of the H! by Henry Holland brand outside the confines of a department store.

Debenhams’ hottest designer, Henry Holland has broken the Designer at Debenhams mould to launch an exclusive pop-up in hip BOXPARK, Shoreditch for fashionistas to shop the H! By Henry Holland collection in time for London Fashion Week.

Looking to create a space that fully adopts the essence of the H! by Henry Holland brand, Henry is setting himself up as Designer and Shop Keeper for the AW16 season. As part of the AW16 brand initiative, Henry has recruited a girl tribe of bloggers to be faces of the collection taking the team to the streets of Holland (Amsterdam to be exact!) to create their distinct looks for the season from his fashion and accessories collection. Influencers who made the cut include Charlie X Barker, Cocoa Chelsea, Peexo, Pippa Melody, Salt and Chic, Tiny Twisst and Wonderful You styled it out on the streets of ‘The Dam’ with Henry putting finishing touches to the looks.

The BOXPARK store launches on Tuesday 13th September 2016 and shoppers can adopt the girl tribe look with the “Geek Chic” inspired collection where checks and ginghams mix with embroidered slogan denim and animal prints. Pretty conversational prints fuse with casual sportswear, for a girly yet street look. Must-have items include the slogan spot blouse, the check pinafore dress and the silk bomber.

Also instore, customers can shop a selection of Urban Decay hero palettes including the Naked range and newly launched Moondust. Social media fans are invited to enter a “selfie” competition too to

win a H! by Henry Holland outfit. In addition exclusive goody bags and promotions will be offered at the pop up, online as well as Debenhams stores throughout the week.

Designer Henry Holland says: “I love the vibe and atmosphere in Shoreditch, its where I spend a lot of my time so where better to unleash my H! By Henry Holland collection outside of Debenhams stores. I love the idea of running my own shop and the pop up is a great opportunity for my collection to reach out further to new faces and fully showcase what the collection has to offer. ”

The H! By Henry Holland BOXPARK store is open from Tuesday 13th September to Sunday 18th September 2016 at unit 26, BOXPARK, 2-10 Bethnal Green Road, London, E1 6GY. Customers who can’t make it to the store can shop the collection online at debenhams.com and in their local Debenhams store.

Notes to Editors:

• To celebrate the launch of the pop up, join the party at #H!byHenryHolland presents at BOXPARK Terrace from 6pm -9pm on Thursday 15th September. Meet Henry Holland’s new girl tribe formed of lifestyle bloggers and faces of the new season collection

For further information please contact:
Sarah Coventon
Debenhams Press Office
Sarah.Coventon@debenhams.com
020 3549 6420

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams announces international expansion with plans to open stores in Australia and Gibraltar

Debenhams announces international expansion with plans to open stores in Australia and Gibraltar
Debenhams announces international expansion with plans to open stores in Australia and Gibraltar

 

London, 2016-Sep-14 — /EPR Retail News/ — Debenhams is to extend its international store network with new sites in Australia and Gibraltar in the pipeline.

The Australian store, the first in the Southern Hemisphere, is planned to open in the prestigious St Collins Lane precinct in September 2017. The store will be the first site with franchise partner, Pepkor, part of the Steinhoff Group and will see the construction of 3,600sqm retail space over two levels.

Debenhams has also partnered with International Franchises Limited (IFL) to create two stores in Gibraltar taking over former BHS sites.

The Gibraltar stores will consist of a dedicated Homes store on Main Street, which will open September 2016 carrying collections by Debenhams’ Designers, Matthew Williamson, Julien MacDonald, Jasper Conran, John Rocha and Ben de Lisi. Redevelopment of a store in the International Commerce Centre will see a Christmas ‘pop up’ trade from late October 2016 until mid-January as modernisation also takes place. The site will open carrying the full department store offer in February 2017.

The partnership with IFL secures the jobs of all employees formerly working in the BHS stores and will also offer consumers in the region with unparalleled choice, value and quality from a host of credible brands.

Debenhams International Director, David Smith says, “International expansion is a strategic priority for Debenhams. We are delighted to be working with Pepkor on entering the

Australian market and International Franchises Limited in Gibraltar. By working with both partners we will introduce our unique mix of Designer and own brands to the regions. ” Graham Dean, MD Pepkor South East Asia Department Stores says, “This partnership heralds one of the most exciting Department Store stories in Australia and we look forward to opening the store.”

George Russo, Director of IFL says, “Securing Debenhams as a retail partner to take over the two BHS sites is a real coup in many ways for us. Not only have we been able to secure a considerable number of jobs but we are also delivering an improved retail offer to the Gibraltar public which is bound to have a positive halo effect on the high street shopping within the region.”

Debenhams’ entry into the Gibraltar market is also a first for the brand and will complement online sales delivering to the region. BHS has been trading in Gibraltar for 31 years since 1985.

Debenhams launched a stand alone ecommerce site for Australia in April this year. The brand is also to wholesale selected product lines to Pepkor-owned Harris Scarfe stores as part of a multi-channel strategy to service the region.

About Debenhams
Debenhams is a leading international, multi-channel brand with a proud British heritage which trades out of more than 240 stores across 27 countries. Debenhams gives its customers around the world a unique, differentiated and exclusive mix of own brands, international brands and concessions.

In the UK, Debenhams has a top three market position in womenswear and menswear and a top ten share in childrenswear. It holds the number two market position in premium health and beauty.

Debenhams has been investing in British design for 21 years through its exclusive Designers at Debenhams portfolio of brands. Current designers include Abigail Ahern, Savannah Miller, Ted Baker, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, FrostFrench, Patrick Grant, Henry Holland, Ben de Lisi, Todd Lynn, Julien Macdonald, Jenny Packham, Stephen Jones, Preen, Giles Deacon, Aliza Reger, John Rocha, Ashley Thomas and Matthew Williamson.

CONTACTS:

Christine Morgan
Debenhams Press Office
T: 07432139622
E: christine.morgan@debenhams.com

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams launches Autumn/Winter collections from new brands and expanded Hammond & Co. menswear line

Debenhams launches Autumn/Winter collections from new brands and expanded Hammond & Co. menswear line
Debenhams launches Autumn/Winter collections from new brands and expanded Hammond & Co. menswear line

 

LONDON, 2016-Sep-14 — /EPR Retail News/ — Debenhams AW 16 fashion offer benefits from an extension to the successful Hammond & Co. line into underwear and loungewear as well as a number of new concessions added online.

Hammond & Co., the incredibly successful menswear range by Savile Row tailor, Patrick Grant extends into loungewear and underwear with a 35 sku offering across 43 stores. The brand, which launched in September 2013 and was quickly rolled out to a current total of 123 stores offers cotton satin weave pyjamas, loose fit sweat tops and pants alongside towelling gown and suede-wool mix moccasin slippers. The underwear range includes cotton modal and cotton weave boxer shorts in black, white, navy and burgundy. Paul Baldwin, Trading Director for Menswear says, “Hammond & Co. has been the most successful debut Designer in Debenhams history and appetite for the brand is such that an extension into underwear and loungewear was a natural step. The new lounge and underwear range delivers the trademark classic and contemporary mix and offers a credible brand to customers in a new product category.”

Also added to the AW 16 season are a range of new concession brands. Menswear brand, Jack and Jones which launched in 14 stores in 2015 is added to an additional 18 sites as well as clothing ranges previewing online. Little Black Dress, Celuu, Live Unlimited and Scarlett and Jo and Jane Norman, are also added for the season.

Sarah Savva, Director of External Business says, “A strong brand proposition is key to the Debenhams offering and we are seeing lots of partners wanting to extend their offering to our customers. Our ability to work with established brands such as Jack and Jones to emerging brands such as Little Black Dress enables partners to tap quickly into a new marketplace at scale.”

In addition to the extended fashion offer, exciting new coffee and casual dining options have continued to roll out across the estate with five additional Costa sites, three Patisserie Valerie cafes and Franco Manca launcing in Westfield over the last two months. Insomnia will also open coffee

bars in Cardiff and Bristol this Autumn/Winter. The brand is already operating in Bradford, Rugby and Cork.

About Debenhams
Debenhams is a leading international, multi-channel brand with a proud British heritage which trades out of more than 240 stores across 27 countries. Debenhams gives its customers around the world a unique, differentiated and exclusive mix of own brands, international brands and concessions.

In the UK, Debenhams has a top three market position in womenswear and menswear and a top ten share in childrenswear. It holds the number two market position in premium health and beauty.

Debenhams has been investing in British design for over 20 years through its exclusive Designers at Debenhams portfolio of brands. Current designers include Abigail Ahern, Savannah Miller, Ted Baker, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, FrostFrench, Patrick Grant, Henry Holland, Ben de Lisi, Todd Lynn, Julien Macdonald, Jenny Packham, Stephen Jones, Preen, Giles Deacon, Aliza Reger, John Rocha, Ashley Thomas and Matthew Williamson.

CONTACTS:

Christine Morgan
Debenhams Press Office
T: 07432139622
E: christine.morgan@debenhams.com

Source: Debenhams

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Debenhams sees growing trend of ‘masstige’ dressing for kids

LONDON, 2016-Mar-29 — /EPR Retail News/ — Debenhams the multi channel retailer is experiencing a growing trend of ‘masstige’ dressing for kids with sales of premium brands delivering double digit growth. Top of the list is the ‘mini me’ fashion brand Baker by Ted Baker which has delivered 25% sales growth in the last five years, with increasing appetite for the range over recent seasons.

The rise is attributed to parents’ upgrading their children’s wardrobe and dressing kids as an extension to their own fashion image and also the increasing desire for children to receive clothes as part of their gift lists for Christmas, Easter and birthday. This Easter Debenhams expects to sell 63,000 units of Baker by Ted Baker childrenswear as clothing makes an appearance alongside Easter eggs on gift lists.

The department store, which introduced Designer wear at high street prices for children in as early as 2000 with its Rocha.JohnRocha line has a new hero brand in the shape of Baker by Ted Baker, an exclusive line launched in 2012. Selling an annual 1.5 million units, the Baker by Ted Baker range has captured the attention of UK parents with its distinct style of graphic print, sumptuous colourways and premium fabrics. Originally offered as boys and girlswear, the Baker by Ted Baker brand now incorporates children’s swim, nightwear, underwear and footwear.

Sales for the Baker by Ted Baker brand which is stocked in the UK, the Middle East, Russia, Cyprus, Iceland and Turkey have been on an upward trajectory as more and more parents choose to dress their children in a ‘mini me’ established fashion brand. “Following in the footsteps of North West and Harper Beckham parents are upgrading the kids wardrobe and opting for a look that adds to their overall fashion credibility,” says Childrenswear Head of Buying, Shani Delargy.

“Where we see an average selling price of £9 on entry price point kidswear, we see that parents will happily upgrade to £20 an item on boyswear and £25 an item on girlswear for a more premium fashion brand. Fuelling the demand is the ongoing pester power of both girls and boys who are keen to select their own clothing and are adding clothing to their holiday and birthday gift lists.”

Areas in the UK bitten hardest by the Baker by Ted Baker bug are the North Midlands which accounts for 30% of the brands sales followed by East Anglia with 11% of sales. The North and Central regions are also big fans of the brand with an additional 10% of sales each.

Easter and Christmas are key periods for Baker by Ted Baker sales as parents indulge their children with new outfits as part of the experience of spending time with family. The Christmas 2015 season saw the brand sell almost 600,000 units with a line of girl’s party dresses selling out in a two week period. Items tipped to be Easter 2016 treats include girls’ dresses and boys shirts and shorts.

CONTACTS
lisa.hunt@debenhams.com

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Debenhams sees growing trend of ‘masstige’ dressing for kids

Debenhams sees growing trend of ‘masstige’ dressing for kids

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Ben de Lisi bridal collection exclusively created for DEBENHAMS

LONDON, 2016-Mar-24 — /EPR Retail News/ — He’s known for dressing the world’s most glamorous women and now Ben de Lisi has created a collection of six stunning bridal gowns exclusively for DEBENHAMS. Epitomising Ben’s signature timeless sophistication, the collection features luxurious fabrics, intricate detailing and faultless design.

From floor-sweeping, sleek column gowns to the fairy tale romance of full skirted tulle styles; body skimming silhouettes, sumptuous beading and embellishment, the capsule collection has been designed to suit all styles of bride injecting red carpet glamour into her wardrobe, regardless of her budget.

Continuing the success of his bestselling Principles by Ben de Lisi womenswear and homeware collections for

DEBENHAMS Ben says:

“Creating a bridal collection for today’s modern bride was a natural step for me. There is no bigger event than a wedding and every bride wants to look phenomenal no matter what their budget. With this collection of six signature styles, I wanted to create something special and unique that would be accessible and affordable.”

Average price points for the dresses are £295 with prices starting from £250 for a column gown, extending to £350 for one of the more opulent, embellished designs.

Debenhams Debenhams is a leading international, multi-channel brand with a proud British heritage which trades out of 240 stores across 28 countries.  Debenhams gives its customers around the world a unique, differentiated and exclusive mix of own brands, international brands and concessions.   In the UK, Debenhams has a top four market share in womenswear and menswear and a top ten share in childrenswear.  It leads the market in premium health and beauty.   Debenhams is the eleventh biggest UK online retailer by traffic volume and in March 2012 was awarded “Multichannel Retailer of the Year” at the Oracle Retail Week Awards.    Debenhams has been investing in British design for 20 years through its exclusive Designers at Debenhams portfolio of brands.  Current designers include Ted Baker, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, Erickson Beamon, FrostFrench, Henry Holland, Roksanda Ilincic, Betty Jackson, Jonathan Kelsey, Carol Lake, Ben de Lisi, Julien Macdonald, Jane Packer, Jenny Packham, Pearce Fionda, Preen, Janet Reger, John Rocha, Jonathan Saunders, Marios Schwab, Yukari Sweeney, Ashley Thomas, Eric Van Peterson and Matthew Williamson.

Source: DEBENHAMS

CONTACTS:

Director of PR
Christine Morgan
Christine.Morgan@debenhams.com
0203 549 6420

Senior PR Manager
Hayley Betts
Hayley.Betts@debenhams.com
0203 5496420

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Debenhams CEO Michael Sharp: We have traded well in the first 19 weeks of the financial year with a strong performance over peak resulting in a record Christmas

LONDON, 2016-Jan-18 — /EPR Retail News/ — Debenhams plc, the leading international, multi-channel brand, today announces its trading update for the 19 weeks to 9th January 2016.

Financial Highlights
• Group gross transaction value +2.5%
• Group like-for-like sales +3.5% in constant currency; +1.9% as reported
• Online sales +12.1%; click & collect penetration has risen to 31%
• Gross margin within FY16 guidance of +0 to +50bps
• Strong performance in the 7 week Christmas period to 9th January:
– LFL sales +3.7% in constant currency, two year growth of +7.1%; +1.8% as reported
– Online sales +15.4%, +26% over two years

Operational Highlights
• Further progress on strategic priorities set out at the Prelims in October 2015 delivered a strong trading performance, with the Christmas week achieving record sales
• Less discounting and a lower level of promotional activity led to full price sales growth of 5%, supported by planned reduction in stock levels across clothing, particularly in weather-sensitive categories
• Black Friday, which falls within our existing promotional calendar, traded successfully and profitably with good year on year growth both in stores and online
• Continuing service improvements delivered a further uplift in online performance over peak, with click & collect penetration peaking at 46% in the pre-Christmas period and strong growth in premium delivery services
• As planned, five new stores opened between September and November 2015: in Bradford, Wandsworth, Rugby, Beverley and Newport
• Internationally, Debenhams performed in line with expectations, with Magasin du Nord in Denmark delivering a record Christmas and further strong momentum in constant currency

Michael Sharp, Chief Executive of Debenhams, said:
“We have traded well in the first 19 weeks of the financial year with a strong performance over peak resulting in a record Christmas. This performance is evidence that our strategy is working with our customers finding our mix of products and brands both compelling and great value for money. The further improvements to our service proposition and our online presentation have delivered strong multi-channel sales growth, building on the progress we saw last year.
“I would like to thank all our colleagues for their continued hard work and support which has ensured that we traded our peak period successfully and with our systems and fulfilment working well. We remain on track to deliver full year profits in line with market expectations.”

Performance in the first half to date
In the 19 week period, Group gross transaction value rose by 2.5%, with like-for-like growth of 3.5% in constant currency, 1.9% as reported.

Further progress on our strategic priorities has supported our performance, delivering a good Black Friday and Christmas trading outcome and full price sales growth across the period of 5%. A planned reduction in outerwear clothing stocks has enabled us to trade a difficult autumn clothing season successfully and we entered the sale period post-Christmas with less stock than in the prior year, in line with our expectation. Strong growth in Beauty has reinforced our market leadership in the premium segment and despite tough comparatives over peak, sales across gift categories have shown good further growth. Non-clothing categories now account for 55% of total revenues, in line with our strategy.

Online sales have delivered continuing positive momentum in the 19 week period, growing 12.1% and with stronger growth over peak. This reflects increasing customer confidence in our service proposition as well as later cut-off times, the extension of endless aisle to improve availability, and more competitive premium delivery charges. We have made further improvements in our online presentation, with mobile orders our fastest-growing channel. As expected, click & collect penetration has continued to increase, growing at 45% year on year and accounting for 31% of online orders in H1 to date.

International sales grew in line with expectations, with Magasin du Nord continuing to deliver good growth and record Christmas trading helped by a recovering Danish economy.

-ENDS-

A conference call for analysts and investors will be held at 8.30am today. To join the call, please dial +44 (0) 20 3427 1912 (UK/Europe) or +1 646 254 3388 (US), PIN 9914197. A recording of the call will be available for seven days on +44 (0) 20 3427 0598 or +1 347 366 9565, PIN  9914197

Enquiries:
Analysts and investors
Debenhams PLC  Matt Smith, Chief Financial Officer
Katharine Wynne, Director of Investor Relations
020 3549 6304

Media
Brunswick Group  Simon Sporborg/Jon Drage
020 7404 5959

Notes to editors
Debenhams is a leading international, multi-channel brand with a proud British heritage which trades out of over 250 stores across 27 countries.  Debenhams gives its customers around the world a unique, differentiated and exclusive mix of own brands, international brands and concessions.

Debenhams has been investing in design for over 20 years through its exclusive Designers at Debenhams portfolio of brands.  Current designers include Abigail Ahern, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, Giles Deacon, Sadie Frost and Jemima French, Patrick Grant, Henry Holland, Betty Jackson, Stephen Jones , Ben de Lisi, Todd Lynn,  Julien Macdonald, Savannah Miller, Jenny Packham, Aliza Reger, John Rocha, Ashley Thomas, Justin Thornton and Thea Bragazzi, Eric Van Peterson and Matthew Williamson.

CONTACTS
For more information and high-res lifestyle and cut-out imagery please contact:

Debenhams Press Office
020 3549 6420 / press.office@debenhams.com

SOURCE: Debenhams Retail plc

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Debenhams CEO Michael Sharp: We have traded well in the first 19 weeks of the financial year with a strong performance over peak resulting in a record Christmas

Debenhams CEO Michael Sharp: We have traded well in the first 19 weeks of the financial year with a strong performance over peak resulting in a record Christmas

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Debenhams report: mothers-in-law at the bottom of the Christmas present list

LONDON, 2015-12-21 — /EPR Retail News/ — Much maligned mothers-in-law can forget any festive cheer this Christmas after coming bottom of the present list.

Over half (51%) will be ignored by their son or daughter’s partner and will be lucky to get so much as a seasons’ greeting, according to a new report from Debenhams.

A further 21% of mothers-in-law will receive a token present costing under £20, the research on Christmas gift giving reveals.

Youngsters will be the biggest winners with an average £206 spent filling their sack from Santa while partners will have an average £163 spent on them.

Men are more generous than women when it comes to choosing a present for their other half, though they take a lesser role when helping with buying for everyone else. 50% of men will spend at least £75 on their partner compared with 30% of women.

One in five (19%) close friends and immediate relatives will also receive nothing though a further 50% will see up to £100 spent on them by generous gift-givers.

The report, which asked about present buying to highlight the High Street store’s Found It campaign showed that nearly everyone appreciates the thought behind a gift, rather than the cost or the frivolous luxury name. Practicality seems to be the name of the game with six out of ten people planning to give gifts that they know the receiver wants and two thirds (66%) will receive gifts they want or need.

Just 5% said they would like something luxurious and only 3% wanted to know what their gift cost.

Top of the Christmas wish list was vouchers, requested by four out of ten, indicating that people often like to choose their own present, followed by jewellery (35%) then clothing for women (30%) and books (28%) for men with electronic gadgetry (26%) coming a close third.

Ten per cent of women hoped to receive lingerie and 12% flowers.

A quarter of men (25%) wanted items of clothing and one in five (19%) are hoping for tech gifts. Cash was popular among 18 to 24 year olds, along with vouchers.

Regionally top of the gift-givers is surprisingly Scotland, Northern Ireland and the North East while the more prosperous London and the South East along with the North West and Wales will spent the least on presents.

Whatever the gift, the good news is that it is generally appreciated, though women do express more doubts than men with 7% expecting to be disappointed after opening their presents on the big day.

Christine Morgan from Debenhams said: “Getting a present right can be extremely tricky but its good to know that most people put some thought behind choosing a gift and try to get it right. We place great emphasis on helping customers pick the right gift for partners, family and friends, including the mother in law,regardless of how much they want to spend.”

To help shoppers find the perfect gift in stores, we have an army of over 100 personal shoppers who have become professional gift finders. Shoppers can book a free of charge 30 minute consultation to give details of their loved ones and their interests. Personal shoppers then seek out the ideal gift from the shop floor while customers relax.”

Survey of 2008 by Atomic Research dec 8-9th

Ends

CONTACTS
Tehreem Ashraf/tehreem.ashraf@debenhams.com

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Debenhams launches Christmas 2015 with a cross-channel marketing campaign

LONDON, 2015-10-28 — /EPR Retail News/ — Debenhams, the leading international multi-channel retailer launches Christmas 2015 with a cross- channel marketing campaign designed to showcase the department store’s gifting credentials.

‘Found It’, the highly successful campaign for 2014 is evolved for 2015 with a more emotive message which highlights Debenhams’ gift offering for a wide range of recipients – making the product the hero, demonstrating the breadth of offer and conveying the chain’s new leading-edge online delivery propositions including next day delivery when you order by midnight.

Designed to capture the period of both self-purchase, getting ready, and major gift buying the campaign launches in store at the end of October and aims to steal a lead in the battle for the Christmas shopper.

‘Found It’ will appear across the UK and ROI estate of 169 stores as well as in advertising, direct mail, online, PR and social media.  The campaign takes a more personal approach to gifting through creating present suggestions for personas including: ‘Found It For the fashionista’; ‘ Found It For the girl who likes to sparkle’; ‘Found It For the weekender’; ‘Found It For the one you love’; and ‘Found It For the littlest one’.  Store windows feature ‘Found It’ and showcase the best in gifting across all categories.  An exclusive Oxford Street flagship window will be revealed on 1st November featuring dynamic video content in partnership with exclusive cosmetics brand, Make Up Forever, bringing the exterior of the building to life.

A further build on the £2 million investment made last year into Christmas decorations and collateral will continue to ensure customers feel festive and give a sense of theatre in store that cannot be replicated online. In addition, this year all Debenhams carrier bags will be ‘turning red’ with ‘Found It’ branding for the season.
Debenhams’ army of 180 personal shoppers are to become ‘Gift Finders’ and through an online reservation service customers will be able to book an appointment and delegate their Christmas shopping. Personal shoppers will find gifting solutions for loved ones as shoppers relax in the Personal Shopping gifting suite.

A print run of over 2 million, 160 page gift guides combine the retailer’s fashion and beauty, home and toy offer showcasing 1,000 gift ideas.  These can be picked up in the retailers’ stores and have been inserted in the Mail on Sunday.

Digital and 48 sheet advertising breaks from early November followed by TV and radio advertising. TV concepts appear as 20” and 10” formats kicking off with the prime ITV X Factor break.  The creative focuses on the emotion of a recipient when they receive the perfect gift. A host of famous voices have been recruited for the campaign including Dawn French, Sarah Millican, Jamelia  and James Nesbitt.  The six separate concepts will sit together as a 60” execution on YouTube.   Retained agency J.Walter Thompson devised the campaign, TV executions were shot by Jamie & Jamie from the production company, Hoi Polloi and print executions were created by the Debenhams in house Creative team. This approach to shorter length TV ads sees the retailer doubling the number of times its customer will see the ad.

Further into the season six sheet posters along with consecutive single page print executions in titles including Grazia, Shortlist, Stylist, Stella, Sunday Times Style and You magazine will appear. National newspapers The Sun, Daily Mail, Metro, Daily Telegraph, Metro and Evening Standard also will carry executions.

Debenhams Marketing Director, Richard Cristofoli says, “The ’Found It’ campaign was designed to celebrate the moment of finding and receiving the perfect gift from a loved one.  It was created as a campaign idea that would have longevity, not burn out after its first year.  Feedback on our 2014 campaign was extremely positive and we are pleased to return with an even stronger emotional connection this year.

“Our campaign is multi-channel and seeks to make smart use of resource with for example, shorter length TV ads that see us deliver a higher frequency of media,” continues Cristofoli.

PR and social media will also highlight the offer with influencer gifting activity, Instagram and Facebook competitions.  In addition, online curated gifting for persona editorial will showcase key items from the Debenhams offer.  Customers will be encouraged to share a ‘selfie’ of themselves using #found it with the ideal gift they have found at Debenhams for the chance to win a £1,000 gift card.  Entrants into the competition will also have the chance to appear as part of a Metro cover wrap in December.   Activity to prompt continuous conversations using #foundit, which trended in the number one spot in the UK in 2014, will also take place throughout the period.

Set to deliver strong talking points globally, a range of international territories are also running elements of the ‘Found It’ campaign in support of Debenhams’ 70 international stores including Debenhams in Malta, Cyprus and Latvia.

Ends

CONTACTS

For further images and information please contact:
Alice Cottingham: 020 3549 6423 / alice.cottingham@debenhams.com

SOURCE: Debenhams Retail plc

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Debenhams launches Christmas 2015 with a cross-channel marketing campaign

Debenhams launches Christmas 2015 with a cross-channel marketing campaign

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Debenhams to launch in the Australian and Vietnamese markets in 2016

LONDON, 2015-10-28 — /EPR Retail News/ — Debenhams, the multichannel department retailer, is to drive its international presence further by launching in the Australian and Vietnamese markets in 2016.  The move comes on the back of agreements with local market partners, Pepkor in Australia (part of the global retail giant, Steinhoff Group) and VinDS, part of Vingroup, one of Vietnam’s largest private companies.

A phased approach to expansion into Australia will see Debenhams enter the Southern hemisphere for the first time.  A dedicated Debenhams-led Australian ecommerce site will launch prior to Christmas 2015. The site will offer product tailored to the market, local currency payment and will be the retailer’s first region-specific site.

Debenhams’ own brand womenswear, womens’ accessories and menswear product will be distributed and retailed within selected, Pepkor-owned, Harris Scarfe stores from October 2016. Future plans include the launch of Debenhams branded franchise stores offering the full product range including fashion, cosmetics and home.

In Vietnam, Vingroup will distribute products in their Fashion Megastore department store chain from early 2016 with selected womenswear and menswear brands sold in 15 stores across the country by the end of the year.

Debenhams Chief Executive Michael Sharp says, “International expansion is a key strategic priority for us and we are delighted to be working with Pepkor in Australia with a new multi-channel business model, selling our brands online, in Harris Scarfe stores and opening Debenhams stores longer term.

“Selling our own brands outside of Debenhams offers a new leg of growth for the business. Our distribution agreement with Vingroup in Vietnam will introduce our brands to this exciting market for the first time”, continues Sharp.

“International expansion is one of our key strategic priorities and we believe that the Australian market holds a lot of potential.  Our product range translates well and many consumers are aware of our brands and Designers .  We are excited to deliver a business model which includes distribution, franchise and e-commerce channels.

“The opportunity for Debenhams to expand internationally includes distributing our products to new customers and working with Vingroup in Vietnam enables us to complement the existing Fashion Megastore offering with a clear point of difference”, continues Sharp.

John Scott, Director of International Business Development for Debenhams said, “Both deals are hugely exciting and significant for Debenhams.

“Australia is a market that we have been reviewing for a number of years and we are delighted to be working with Pepkor, and the wider Steinhoff Group. They are a true global player with the necessary resource and local market expertise to drive our business forward in the region.

“Working with Vingroup we will equally benefit from their market leading knowledge and expertise in the Vietnamese market.  Plans to grow the Fashion Megastore concept over the coming years will see Vingroup take a dominant position in the department store sector which Debenhams will now be part of.”

Jason Murray, Managing Director of Pepkor South East Asia, said, “We are delighted to have secured this partnership with Debenhams. The wholesale arrangement will augment our efforts to revitalise and grow the Harris Scarfe business, while franchise stores will complement our HS stores and add to our back office scale.  These stores will be contemporary, smaller scale flagships which we believe will be Australia’s first genuine modern department stores. Graham Dean, CEO of Harris Scarfe, and his team bring deep UK and Australian department store experience to this venture.”

Munish Rishi, CEO of VINDS (Consumer lifestyle arm of Vingroup) said, “We are pleased to announce our agreement to distribute Debenhams brands. We believe the partnership will bring significant value to our Fashion Megastore proposition and prove an attractive offer for Vietnamese consumers looking for fashionable, quality and affordable products.  We plan to bring best of Debenhams’ brands to the market as key differentiator for our Fashion Megastore’s with 8 additional stores opening in next 2 months and a plan to launch 30 stores over next 3 years.”

Debenhams currently has 248 stores across 28 countries opening its first international store in Bahrain in 1997 followed by further stores across the Middle East including Egypt, Kuwait, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates (Dubai and now Abu Dhabi). Stores are also now located in Europe, and South East and South West Asia.

Debenhams plans to grow its international business to around 30% of the total, through franchise expansion, international online growth and distributing owned brands beyond Debenhams franchise markets.  Debenhams recently opened up its largest global franchise store, in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, the retailer’s second store in Avia Park Moscow, is the largest Debenhams store opened to date in mainland Europe.

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About Debenhams
Debenhams is a leading international, multi-channel brand with a proud British heritage which trades out of more than 240 stores across 27 countries. Debenhams gives its customers around the world a unique, differentiated and exclusive mix of own brands, international brands and concessions. In the UK, Debenhams has a top three market position in womenswear and menswear and a top ten share in childrenswear. It holds the number two market position in premium health and beauty. Debenhams has been investing in British design for 21 years through its exclusive Designers at Debenhams portfolio of brands. Current designers include Abigail Ahern, Savannah Miller, Ted Baker, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, FrostFrench, Patrick Grant, Henry Holland, Betty Jackson, Ben de Lisi, Todd Lynn, Julien Macdonald, Jenny Packham, Stephen Jones, Preen, Giles Deacon Janet Reger, John Rocha, Ashley Thomas, Eric Van Peterson and Matthew Williamson. About Steinhoff, Pepkor and Harris Scarfe Pepkor has a global portfolio of apparel and homewares retail chains, mostly focused around value. It was bought this year by the Steinhoff Group, a South African based retail conglomerate. The combined business had turnover in 2014 of over €11bn and global footprint of over 6,000 stores. Pepkor is the owner of Pep &Co, the recently launched UK chain which already has 50 stores open. Harris Scarfe is one five brands operated by Pepkor in Australasia. It is a department store retailer, offering a range of own brand and branded homewares, electrical goods, women’s and men’s wear. Harris Scarfe offer two formats; the Harris Scarfe full range stores with soft and hard homewares, electrical, footwear, lingerie and fashion; and the HS Home stores ranging only soft and hard homewares and electrical. Originally founded in Adelaide, South Australia in 1849, Harris Scarfe was purchased by Pepkor in 2012 and has subsequently focused on expanding its store portfolio, on updating its offer and on modernising its existing stores. It employs more than 2,000 staff in over 50 stores across the metro and regional areas of South Australia, Tasmania, New South Wales, ACT and Queensland. Its HQ is in Melbourne, Victoria. About Vingroup Vingroup Joint Stock Company (Vingroup JSC), formerly known as Technocom, was founded in Ukraine in 1993 by an ambitious group of Vietnamese youths. Technocom began with food production and quickly found great success with the Mivina brand. During the early years of the 21st century, Technocom was ranked among Ukraine’s Top 100 largest and most influential companies. In 2000,Technocom – Vingroup returned to Vietnam with ambition to contribute the country’s development. Emphasizing sustainable long-term development, Vingroup initially focused investments on real estate and hospitality through two key brands, Vincom and Vinpearl. Ten years of hard work and dedication turned Vincom into one of Vietnam’s premier real estate brands with a number of mixed-used developments in major cities, combining modern shopping malls, offices and luxury apartments in a single complex, leading the trend towards smart, eco-luxury urban projects in Vietnam. Alongside Vincom Vinpearl has also become the leader in Vietnam’s tourism industry, featuring international 5-star and above hotels, resorts, beach villas, amusement parks and golf courses. In January 2012, Vinpearl JSC merged into Vincom JSC to form Vingroup JSC. The new structure ensures sustained development and allows Vingroup to focus on developing its strategic brands: • Vinhomes (Luxury serviced apartments and villas) • Vincom (Premium shopping malls) • Vinpearl (Hotels & Resorts) • Vinpearl Land (Entertainment) • Vinmec (Healthcare services) • Vinschool (Education) • VinEcom (E-commerce) • Vincom Office (Offices for lease) • Vinmart (Supermarket) • Vinfashion (Fashion) • Vincharm (Fitness and beauty care) • Almaz (The International Cuisine & Convention Center) • VinPro Vingroup continues to pioneer and lead consumer trends in each of its businesses introducing Vietnamese consumers to a brand new, modern life-style with international-standard products and services. Vingroup has created a respected, well-recognized Vietnamese brand and is proud to be one of the nation’s leading private enterprises. With these achievements, Vingroup is recognized as one of the most dynamic, successful, well-capitalized companies in Vietnam, well-positioned for international integration and comparable to the best regional and global peers.

CONTACTS

For further images and information please contact:
Alice Cottingham: 020 3549 6423 / alice.cottingham@debenhams.com

SOURCE: Debenhams Retail plc

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Debenhams to launch in the Australian and Vietnamese markets in 2016

Debenhams to launch in the Australian and Vietnamese markets in 2016