1. family and parenting
2. children

Macinform
1
EDITION JANUARY 2011
FRANK DE MOOR (CEO):
“WE ALL NEED TO DO
WHAT WE’RE GOOD AT”
BelCompany supports
Johan Cruyff Foundation
4
‘Shop in shop’ experience at Brantano UK
6
Push 25 years
7
Do-It-Yourself Halfords products
in the spotlight
10
Trend department Macintosh Retail
Group inspires Fashion formulas
12
Macintosh Retail Group opens
Steve Madden stores
According to CEO Frank De Moor, the year 2010
was filled with consumer-relevant developments. “The
governments fell in three of the countries in which we
operate, resulting in lengthy negotiations between
the political parties. A number of poorly performing
euro countries created turmoil in the money market.
Changes to several social provisions were discussed and
the interest rate was lower than ever. The list goes on
and on.” According to De Moor, the resulting uncertainty led to increasing and, subsequently, decreasing
consumer spending. But De Moor believes there is little
reason to dwell on such issues. “The year 2010 is
behind us and all that remains to do for the Macintosh
Retail Group is release our annual figures, which will
take place on 3 March.”
“Our focus should now be on the near future. The year
2011 has only just begun, so we are not yet able to make
any predictions. But we’re ready for it, although still
anxiously awaiting the consumer buying behaviour to
come.” After all, De Moor believes that the economic
climate is still uncertain and cuts have been announced
in all the countries in which the Macintosh Retail
Group operates. “In past years, our primary focus was
on strengthening the existing shop formulas. This has
continued on page 2
3
already been accomplished. We have also made tremendous progress
in the Fashion sector, where there are still plenty of opportunities
and ambitions. Shop formulas like Kwantum and BelCompany are
also ready for a great new year.”
Frank De Moor continues: “In difficult times, many retailers look
for new bright ideas to win over customers. But this is not really
necessary. If everyone simply sticks to what he or she is good at, i.e.
running the shops, we’re sure to succeed. It is for a good reason that
our motto is RETAIL IS OUR BUSINESS. As entrepreneurs, we
can take responsibility to a large extent for our own future by being
extra active and creative and ensuring customer satisfaction. If not,
we will still be able to control our future,
but it will look a little less rosy.” Fortunately, De Moor is optimistic, thanks to
the results of satisfaction surveys in which
customers often rate our shops as best.
BelCompany, for instance, once again
holds a prominent place in the spotlights
as the Best Telecom store chain of the
year (see the lower right section of this
page).
Finally, our CEO points out a number of joint campaigns with
other strong market players. “In this edition of Macinform, we once
again see a range of initiatives that demonstrate that other organisations have confidence in our strategy and approach and are willing
to invest in them.”
Frank De Moor is particularly charmed by the expansion of the
Fashion sector with the unstoppable ‘Steve Madden’ American
brand. “This fits in with the upper segment of our shoe market. It is
an expansion with a unique look & feel. We are pleased to be the
first to market this brand in Europe. In the United States, Steve
Madden is the second most popular shoe brand among teenagers,
after Nike. That says something about
the position and opportunities of this
brand. We will be opening the first Steve
Madden shops in the Netherlands this
spring.”
“My fellow chair executives Eric Coorens
and Theo Strijbos also look towards the
future with confidence. If we succeed at
making the most of our strengths, we can
be sure of a fantastic and successful 2011.
On behalf of Eric, Theo and myself, I
wish all employees, shareholders and
business partners the very best for 2011,
both personally and professionally.”
De Moor is also pleased with the online
activities of the Macintosh Retail Group.
“All shop formulas have excellent webshops that rank among the top shops
from a commercial and technical perspective, with logistical processes that are
efficiently executed down to the very last
detail. This is absolutely necessary, considering the continuously growing
number of online purchases.”
From left to right: Eric Coorens, Frank De Moor, Theo Strijbos
HEAD OFFICE OF MACINTOSH
RETAIL GROUP HAS MOVED
In November 2010, Macintosh Retail Group moved its head
office from the city centre of Maastricht to the business park of
Maastricht-Airport. This new head office is within a stone’s
throw of the A2 and A76 motorways and is directly adjacent to
the airport. This move will improve access considerably, especially as the centre of Maastricht is expected to undergo considerable disruption in the next few years due to the construction of a
tunnel underneath the A2 motorway. The new location presents
a considerable improvement for both our employees and visitors.
The telephone and fax numbers remain unchanged. Our new
address is as follows:
Visiting address: Amerikalaan 100, 6199 AE Maastricht-Airport
Postal Address: Postbus 110, 6190 AC Maastricht-Airport
WINNER CONSUMER SURVEY
BELCOMPANY AGAIN VOTED BEST RETAIL
CHAIN IN THE DUTCH TELECOM MARKET
For the second year in a row, BelCompany has been voted the Best Retail
Chain in the Dutch Telecom Market. With a score of 7.87, BelCompany
saw off competition from brands such as KPN Winkel, Hi Shop, The
Phone House and T-Mobile.
Favourite
Almost 13,500 consumers took part in the consumer survey, and were
asked to judge twelve different telecom retail chains. Respondents were
asked a wide range of questions. Their answers reveal that - in addition
to price - customers appreciate qualities such as ‘service’ and
‘knowledgeable’ staff. A high appreciation of these factors allows
BelCompany to distinguish itself in the marketplace.
Scoring an impressive 8.36 on Service and 8.32 on Knowledgeable
Staff, BelCompany was the clear favourite and can rightly call itself the
winner in the category Telecom.
BelCompany: Understands you like no other
BelCompany employees listen to the customer’s wishes, explain everything clearly, and offer good advice. Consumers clearly appreciate this,
and have expressed their appreciation for BelCompany, the biggest
independent provider of mobile telecom products and services in the
Netherlands.
2
BELCOMPANY SUPPORTS GOOD CAUSE
ROLL UP YOUR SLEEVES FOR THE
JOHAN CRUYFF FOUNDATION
To find out more about the Johan Cruyff Foundation,
and for photos and reports of this special Open Day,
please visit www.cruyff-foundation.org.
As is widely known, BelCompany supports the Johan
Cruyff Foundation, an organisation that is committed to
getting and keeping young people moving. The Foundation initiates and supports projects that stimulate sports
and games. With a team of thirty volunteers, BelCompany offered a helping hand at the tenth Open Day of the
Johan Cruyff Foundation in the Olympic Stadium in
Amsterdam. Around 2,000 children with a disability
were given the opportunity to do sports and play games
together during various demonstrations and clinics.
A MUSICAL
COLLABORATION
Rolling up our sleeves together
Especially for this Open Day, BelCompany had invited
its closest partners and suppliers to roll up their sleeves
for a good cause. The response was overwhelming:
thirty ‘telecoms giants’ presented themselves at the gate
of the Olympic Stadium in Amsterdam. Suppliers, distributors and operators stood side by side and put their
best foot forward for a good cause. Paul Vreeburg,
Managing Director of BelCompany, looks back on the
day with a sense of tremendous satisfaction: “BelCompany is at the heart of the community. As an organisation, we support the Johan Cruyff Foundation and
Warchild, organisations that are dedicated to giving
more opportunities to children and young people in
difficult circumstances. It was wonderful to make a
valuable contribution with our business relations.
Heartwarming to see these children have so much fun
today, and the dedication of all our volunteers. In 1
word: super!” …..
Dutch celebrities also took part
As well as famous athletes such as
Michael Boogerd and Esther Vergeer,
the Open Day was also attended by
Johan Cruyff himself. Cruyff emphasised
the importance of sport for children as
they grow up: “This day was a huge celebration, not only for the children, but also
for all the sponsors, ambassadors, volunteers and, of course, for myself.”
BRANTANO AND ‘DO-THE-DANCE’
As a market leader in children’s footwear, Brantano BeLux is
constantly looking for new partnerships that offer added value.
That added value came in the form of Do-The-Dance, a popular
dance programme on the Flemish children’s channel, Kzoom.
Billboard displays
In this popular children’s programme, Arne, Ralf, Laurien and
a small team of dancers introduce their young audience to a
new dance each week. Before and after each episode, Brantano
shows a billboard featuring the latest kids’ collection. After all,
comfortable, eye-catching shoes make you dance better...
€ 9,95
€
OF
*BIJ
Exclusive
Both parties are enthusiastic about the collaborative venture.
The typical Flemish character, the familiarity and authenticity
of the children’s channel Kzoom fit Brantano’s image like a
glove. Furthermore, the Brantano products
featured are relevant to the context of the programme. In short, a partnership with added
value. To flesh out the collaborative venture
even further, Brantano customers who purchased a pair of children’s shoes were treated
to a free, exclusive ‘Do-The-Dance’ DVD, or
could purchase one for just € 4.95.
*
GRATIS
EN
INDERSCHOEN
EEN PAAR K
AANKOOP VAN
0
.E.M. 31/12/201
ACTIE GELDIG T
D STREKT.
DE VOORRAA
OF ZOLANG
3
A NEW BRAND ‘SHOP IN SHOP’ EXPERIENCE IN BRANTANO UK
ON THE CHILDREN’S DEPARTMENT
Brantano UK is at the height of change, and with more
and more stores being refurbished to new contemporary
interiors and product becoming more affordable and
stylish, customers have experienced some exciting
changes over the past year to enhance their shopping
experience and walk away with a pair of shoes for great
value. And there is more to come…
Top Brands
Brantano UK’s ‘Top Brands’ play an important role
in the product range, with some new exciting brands
Skechers, Rocket Dog and Lotus coming on board
and enhancing the product range on offer for all the
family.
Furthermore Brantano UK’s two long established
brands, Clarks and Hush Puppies, have experienced a
new presence in the stores in the children’s department. This was executed as a trial during and just after
the ever so busy Back To School period, and because
of it’s success and brand impact in the kids range, both
brands will now be featured as a ‘shop in shop’ brand
experience in the kids fitting stores by the beginning of
2011.
Verkrijgbaar met alle netwerken!
NEW
BELCOMPANY SELLS
Highlighted
David Short, Managing Director of Brantano UK
says “Our expert children’s fitting service is a great
reason why parents like to shop in Brantano for their
children’s shoes. Clarks and Hush Puppies are the two
leading brands in the UK that are recognised by
parents as offering high quality width fitted options.
We felt that both brands were not highlighted enough
in-store even though sales have always been good for
the brands, and hence why we have decided to implement a brand shop-in-shop customer experience.
This new point of sale gives authority and credibility
to our offer and confidence to the customer that
Brantano can look after their children’s feet.”
IPHONE 4 ON ALL NETWORKS
In late November 2010, BelCompany started selling the
popular iPhone 4 on all networks, including Vodafone,
KPN and Hi. Until recently, the iPhone was only available on the T-Mobile network. In addition to the iPhone
4, available in a 16GB and 32GB version, BelCompany
consumers can also purchase the iPhone 3GS in an
8GB version.
Voor Ned
4
WEEKBLAD NR.
37 > 14 SEPT.
2010 > MET
TV-GIDS VAN
18 T.E.M. 2
CUSTOMER SATISFACTION MAPPED OUT
BELCOMPANY APPRECIATES
THE OPINIONS OF ITS
CUSTOMERS AND
EMPLOYEES
All too often it is only the customers who are asked to give their
opinion or to take part in a satisfaction survey. But, in addition to
happy customers, it is also important to have happy employees. To
that end, BelCompany invited both target audiences to make their
opinions, tips or recommendations for improvements known via
an online survey. Using the results of these satisfaction surveys,
BelCompany set to work.
Belcompany.tevreden.nl
Via special online surveys, customers can easily and constantly
share their experiences with the products and services with
BelCompany. These results are mapped out and published online.
This valuable data enables BelCompany to tailor its services even
more closely to its customers.
An average score of 8!
In the meantime, more than 9,000 customers have rated their
store visit with an average score of 8.0 (!). The ratings will soon
be made available to visitors to the online website, BelCompany.nl. Customers select their store, and are instantly shown
the store’s rating given by other customers. This is how BelCompany ensures that existing and new customers literally see
that BelCompany understands the customer like no other...
Waarom hebben
we eigenlijk geen
naambordjes?
ER!
NU NOG LEUK
Goede ideeën en initiatieven?
Opmerkingen of suggesties?
Geef je mening op
Goede ideeën en initiatieven?
Opmerkingen of suggesties?
Geef je mening op:
www.telefoonkopen.tevreden.nl
Attention for own employees
Three working groups were set up to process the
results of the employee satisfaction survey. The working groups delve into a topic raised by the employees
taking part in the survey. This shows that BelCompany actually does something with the survey results.
Lead by example
Following in the footsteps of BelCompany, telefoonkopen.nl also gave its employees the opportunity
to participate in a satisfaction survey in 2010. The
employees responded enthusiastically. Where possible, wishes are translated into concrete actions.
www.belcompany.tevreden.nl
17.0.082 MTO Flyer A5_2.indd 1
04-05-10 09:08
STRATEGIC COLLABORATION BETWEEN MARKET LEADERS BRANTANO AND ‘DAG ALLEMAAL’
TOGETHER YOU CAN DO MORE
The family magazine ‘Dag Allemaal’ is the market leader in Belgium,
attracting over 1.8 million readers a week. A solid basis for a successful
collaboration...
Free Partybox
The mission of ‘Dag Allemaal’ is simple and honest:
hon
nest: to
make the reader happy.
To flesh out this ambition, readers were invited
d to
o collect
reward points, which could be redeemed over a 4-week
4-w
week
period for a free Partybox in all Brantano shops
ops
throughout Flanders.
13:32
Voor Nederla
GIDS VAN 18
nd: € 2,30
€2
Lux
.: € 2,10
Pagina
1
GRATIS TV
GESCHEN-PARTYB
KEN VOO
R IEDEREOX
EN!
Added joy
The free Partybox was certainly an excellent way to spread joy
among ‘Dag Allemaal’ readers. However, Brantano went one
Partybox were pleasantly
step
p further. Readers collecting
g theirr Pa
surprised with a Brantano gift vo
voucher
uch worth €5.00, which
could be redeemed on the spot
spot.
No fewer than 70,000
t. N
readers found their way to Bran
Brantano,
ntan and more than half
redeemed their
th
heir voucher to buy something special.
All in all, this was
sp
a highly
successful camh
paign and proof that
success
can
be
achieved by working
together.
to
MET VEEL
T.E.M. 24 SEP
T. 2
DIKKE
5
BRANTANO UK ENTERS
NATIONAL
CHARITY SINGING
COMPETITION
‘SEARCH FOR A STAR’
TELEFOONKOPEN.NL HAS COMPLETELY
REVAMPED ITS WEBSITE
The new-look website is even more user-friendly, making it easier for
customers to choose a handset and contract and compare the full range
of options.
Customer-friendly
The optimized logistics process enables customers to choose between
having the handset delivered, and collecting it in person from a
telefoonkopenwinkel.nl outlet of choice.
Brantano UK has been involved in something a bit
different this Autumn/ Winter. In association with the UK
charity Retail Trust, Brantano has taken part in a
national singing competition, ‘Search for a Star’.
16 year old Connagh Smith from the Brantano UK
Wakefield store competed in the Top 50 for a place in
the final Top 10. Connagh composed
sang
very
osed
os
d aand
nd
d ssan
angg hi
hiss ver
ery
own song. Unfortunately Connagh
gh Smith did not get a
place in the final top 10, but it has
as been a great opportunity to promote the Brantano
no
brand throughout the competiition.
Retail Trust gives confidential support to
o
Steppingstone
As the name telefoonkopen.nl suggests, the website complements the
physical high street presence with 30 outlets. Considering that
approximately 30% of subscriptions in the Netherlands are sold via
the internet, a strong online presence is an important steppingstone
to the ongoing success of telefoonkopen.nl.
people who have been victims and witnesses
e
es
to gun and knife crime, physical and mental
al
abuse, and financial difficulty as well ass
other unforeseen circumstances that life can
n
throw at you. Retail Trust continues to
o
offer all services completely free of charge to
o
those working in, and retired from, retail and
nd
associated businesses.
Macintosh, which at the time had textile
production facilities, provided that solution, which eventually resulted in the first
Push brace.
2011 ANNIVERSARY YEAR
PUSH 25 YEARS;
PUSHING AMBITION!
Nea International celebrates its 25th anniversary this
year. Founded 25 years ago, in May 1986, the company
carried through a product idea developed by University
Hospital Maastricht. The product provided the answer to
an age-old question: ‘how can an injured knee, ankle or
wrist be adequately bandaged in a textile-based product
that has all the beneficial properties of tape bandage?
6
Push in 25 countries
In 25 years, Push has grown into a market
leader in the treatment and prevention of
joint injuries. Its excellent product range
offers suitable solutions for sportsmen
and women, as well as in the workplace
and at home. Push is distributed in 25
countries across Europe and beyond.
Anniversary year
With the theme ‘Pushing Ambition’,
Nea International will be celebrating its
anniversary year in style. The company
aims to raise funds for charity through
a range of fun activities. Further details
will be provided in the next edition of
Macinform.
DO-IT-YOURSELF HALFORDS PRODUCTS IN THE SPOTLIGHT
HANDY SOLUTIONS AT YOUR FINGER TIPS
Halfords has a longstanding reputation as the best store for car and
bicycle accessories. As well as selling products such as navigation
systems, bicycles, child seats, booster seats and car roof cases,
Halfords is also a popular choice for consumers looking for ‘small’,
emergency do-it-yourself products.
3 worlds at your finger tips
To enable customers to locate the right product even more easily,
Halfords has divided its store and product range into ‘3 worlds’:
• An Auto shop featuring mobile electronics and transport
products, such as bicycle carriers, roof cases, roof racks, booster
seats, child seats, etc. There are also handy car accessories including styling products and special in-car
in
products, all neatly arranged in the ‘Auto
p
sshop’.
Bicycle shop with a wide range of
• The Halfords
Hal
affordably priced bikes, from budget bicycles to
affordab
and leading brands. Needless to say, accestrends an
such as rainwear, bags, baskets, racks,
sories su
helmets, bicycle computers and special children’s
accessories have not been forgotten.
accessori
Do-it-yourself shop with a range of practical
• Do-it-yo
products to repair your own bicycle or car and
worn parts.
replace w
Clumsy, all fingers and thumbs?
For clumsy customers, Halfords offers a simple
alternative: ‘leave it to Halfords’. The Halfords
Service Centrum offers an extensive repair service;
the Halfords 2-hour Service provides a fast in-store
assembly service for e.g. tyres and lighting, and
the Halfords Fitting Service offers a mobile fitting
service for mobile electronics.
Halfords is so easy.
To the point
Customers looking for do-it-yourself products have
a different scoping and buying behaviour than cuslooking for a bicycle or navigation products.
tomers look
do-it-yourself shop of Halfords exploits these
The do-it-y
portunities to the maximum. This approach has
opportuniti
effect on the other ‘shops’ in the
also had a positive
p
Halfords store. The entire product range is
H
more easily accessible, more transparent
m
aand more conveniently arranged.
NEW TV COMMERCIALS
A HUGE SUCCESS
KWANTUM
TOP OF MIND
Kwantum has for years been the undisputed number one
supplier of window-dressing and floor covering products in
the Netherlands. Customers know that Kwantum always
succeeds in helping them ‘dress’ their home fashionably
and affordably. For non-customers in the Netherlands,
Kwantum has also been making its presence felt in recent
months.
Guaranteed lowest price
For seven weeks, various TV commercials were aired to
communicate the Kwantum message: ‘Buy made-tomeasure curtains for less than € 5.00 per meter and floor
covering, including installation, for € 4 per m2’. The TV
ads were designed to convince consumers of Kwantum’s
lowest price guarantee. The response spoke volumes...
Successful
The constant presence of Kwantum on TV with these
commercials was certainly felt. A growing number of
consumers are choosing Kwantum floor covering, and
there has even been a spectacular rise in demand for
curtains and bespoke awnings. Furthermore, according
to consumer analysts, Kwantum has succeeded in
increasing its ‘top of mind’ brand awareness with floor
covering, curtains and awning products.
7
SPECIAL SMOKE DETECTOR AVAILABLE
EXCLUSIVELY AT KWANTUM
OPENING OF THE FIRST, FULLY RESTYLED STORE
THE NEW
HOT SHOP
IN TOWN
TRENDY BIRD SAVES LIVES
Fire prevention is crucial: the use of smoke detectors saves
lives. Round, flat smoke detectors are extremely popular in
the home, but are also very boring. There is another way!
Now exclusively at Kwantum: trendy smoke detectors shaped
like a bird in the colours white, black/white and green. And
soon also available in pink and blue. The price: € 35.00
Chick-a-Dee®
The Chick-a-Dee® can be easily placed anywhere in
the house using a small clip. Should smoke be detected, it
produces a unique and distinctive sound, alerting you
immediately. The innovative Chick-ADee® smoke detectorr complies with
the most stringent EU
U safety regulations and recently won a prestigious
Design Award. The Chick-a-Dee®
hick-a-Dee®
has a battery life of 1 year and
a 3-year factory warranty.
nty.
Amidst huge interest, PRO opened its first, fully restyled PRO 020
store at Kalverstraat 43 in Amsterdam in late November. In 2011, the
other PRO outlets in the Netherlands will also be undergoing a total
restyle, in which young people are actively engaged. With this new
restyl
brand positioning, arranged for, by and with young people, PRO
engages even more directly with its target audience.
engag
The Chick-a-Dee was a little bird used by minerss in the
US as an early warning
g smoke
detection system. The Chicka-Dee® smoke detector
or was
inspired by this little bird.
ird.
SCAPINO SHARES KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERTISE WITH THE OTHER SHOE FORMULAS OF MACINTOSH RETAIL GROUP
WORKING TOGETHER IS REWARDING
The shoe formulas of Macintosh Retail Group continue to intensify their collaborative efforts. By sharing knowledge
and expertise, the business operations of the different formulas can be optimised even further. Scapino is making a
valuable - and fruitful - contribution to this cooperation.
For Scapino, the customer comes first; a good product,
affordably priced in a pleasant store environment. During the winter months, the product range focuses on the
latest trends, winter sports and its own label, Mountain
Peak. The other sports label, Dutchy, is currently the
third-biggest sports label in the Netherlands. Many of
the shoe brands, such as the comfort label Beegle and
the children’s shoe quality label Dr. Visser are absolute
top-quality products. Scapino buys many top-quality
shoes from leading brand manufacturers that offer
special productions. This enables Scapino to sell high
quality at low prices, something that customers certainly
appreciate.
In addition to its own label products, Scapino also carries famous leading brands such as Nike, Adidas, Puma
and Asics. In 2011, this range will be expanded with the
addition of Hush Puppies and Clarks, which are currently offered within Macintosh Retail Group by Dolcis
and Brantano.
8
The product range will further be expanded with the
famous brand Le Coq Sportif.
Together we are stronger
Behind the screens, Scapino is working hard with the
other shoe formulas. Purchasing, ICT, logistics,
publicity campaigns...the benefits of collaboration
are being exploited to the full. To eventually
deliver added value for the customer. Working
together is rewarding!
New: Scapino opens compact formula in the spring
of 2011
With the new Scapino stores, the formula comes to the customers.
Suitable locations are community shopping centres and
larger villages. More news to
follow shortly.
Mega crowd
After the official opening of
the Kalverstraat store,
Henk Sieders, Managing
Director of the Hoogenbosch Retail Group, opened
the doors to the brand new
PRO branch. The live dance
acts, sneaker art, champagne and funky beats of
Henk Sieders surrounded by ‘customizers’
the DJ attracted a mega
crowd, which ensured that the Kalverstraat and the store were jam
packed in no time. Sneakers were customized live, and the checkout
of PRO 020 was given an original facelift in front of a live audience.
Invitees could secure their favourite ‘pattas’, and the boxes flew
over the counters like hotcakes.
Become a PRO
Young people are actively involved in restyling the PRO stores.
Everyone is given the opportunity to determine the layout and the
in-store music. PRO gives young people the opportunity to submit
designs, drawings, illustrations or tags. The designs can be uploaded
via becomeapro.nl. Visitors to the website can put together their
own playlist and hear their music played instore. All those who uploaded their designs are
not only given the opportunity to see their
work immortalised in a PRO store, but also
stand a chance of winning a year’s supply of
PRO sneakers.
Think global act local
For each PRO store, a unique design is made,
giving each city and town its own style. This is
what makes the new PRO concept so unique.
After all, each individual has his or her own
style, and so should each store.
To upload your designs and music:
www.becomeapro.nl
www.pro-shoes.nl
SALE OF FIREWORKS ATTRACTS
MANY
M
ANY NEW
NEW CCUSTOMERS
USTOMERS
HALFORDS CLOSES
2010 WITH A BANG
In accordance with Dutch legislation, consumer fireworks may
only be sold on the last three days of the year, and their storage
and transport are subject to stringent laws. The sale of fireworks
is therefore perhaps the biggest logistical challenge facing
Halfords each year...
Halfords Vuurwerk Center (HVC) arranges it all...
To turn the entire fireworks operation into a success, Halfords
started making preparations way back in May. The special
Halfords Vuurwerk Center is the central place for all fireworksrelated information for Halfords stores. The HVC ‘takes the
worry’ out of selling fireworks, so that Halfords employees can
focus on their primary task, i.e. advice and sales.
Complex
For the last few days of the year, special order and delivery
schedules are created that must be coordinated carefully with
the date and time of the in-store sales. This is essential to ensure
that the stores do not exceed the legally permitted quantity of
fireworks stored. Strict legislation, coupled with unforeseen
weather changes, turn fireworks sales into an extremely complex logistical operation. However, as in previous years, the
logistical expertise of Halfords and the enthusiasm of its dedicated staff turned the last few days of 2010 into a ‘thunderous’
success.
HALFORDS IMPROVES EFFICIENCY
THROUGH SPACE MANAGEMENT
A SPIDER IN THE WEB
To ensure that all Halfords stores have the same store layout and
appearance, retail shelf planners and store presentations will be
directed centrally from the company’s head office in Veenendaal.
However, Halfords has gone one step further in professionally
such as development, maintenance and shelf
iintegrating
ntegrating all processes, suc
management’ - into its business processes.
ooptimisation
ptimisation - ‘space manage
Attractive balance
Special software enables
Halfords not only to develop efficient
en
nables H
retail shelf planners,
also to analyse which solutions maximise
plannerss, but al
sales turnover and margin
margins, and their impact on inventory manlogistics.
agement and logisti
cs.
This enables the
category managers and space managers of
the catego
Halfords to
o create the ideal shelf, which meets the needs of
the consumer
conssumer and
an Halfords as best as possible.
A central
cenntral hub
hu
Halfords, space management is an integral part
At Halford
business processes, rather than a standalone
off all busi
programme. This means that all product details
program
p
such as inventory, product numbers, EAN
codes, descriptions, dimensions, prices
and sales are centrally linked and easily
accessible. This integration of business
processes, with space management
software as its central hub, has enabled
Halfords to achieve even greater
efficiency gains.
9
MACINTOSH RETAIL GROUP SPOTS FASHION TRENDS
TRENDSPOTTERS INSPIRE
FASHION FORMULAS
By the time you read this article, you will probably still be keeping warm in a thick cable knit jumper and fur-lined boots. At this
very moment, the trend department of Macintosh Retail Group
is hard at work identifying trends for spring 2012. ‘Trendspotting’ mainly means looking around you and gauging what moves
people.
You are not only buying or selling ‘fashion’, you are creating
your own personal style and a certain ‘look’ that contributes to
high street fashion trends. As well as the internet, visits to
trade shows and the world’s major metropolises, the high
street is a great source of inspiration for our ‘fashion bloggers’,
who spot the latest trend that grew from nowhere.
The trendspotters of Macintosh Retail Group, led by Elise
Peusen, are responsible for identifying fashion and footwear
trends. This allows the shoe stores of Macintosh Retail Group
to deliver a distinctive collection that repeatedly tempts consumers to buy their shoes from these stores.
The trend department supports and inspires the different purchasing departments of Macintosh Retail Group with a
‘styling tour’, where the trends are presented. This is
complemented with handy trend books containing specific
information about shapes, colours and models.
The trend presentations and trend books not only form an
important basis for our own publicity communications, but
also for the PR campaigns to fashion magazines. In consultation with the buyers, the trend department also identifies
dentifies the
most important Must Haves - items that belong in
n every shoe
cabinet or wardrobe - for the coming year.
HOT OR NOT
Elise Peusen, Brand & Product Director of Macintosh Retail Group: “If we look at the
coming springtime, the spring and summer collections give us ample opportunity to
develop our own style and personality. From a classic look with suit jacket to a relaxed
combination for a more nonchalant look.
The styles for men and women reveal many similar and unisex trends; from masculine
brogue shoes to military jackets. For more casual moments, the simple basic sneaker for
men and women has become a perennial favourite. Espadrilles for him and her are a summer holiday staple”.
Ladies
Ladies will again need to work on their waist. Dresses and skirts have a tightened waistline. The length varies from short skating skirts or pleated skirts to long and wide, flared
skirts.
10
BELCOMPANY HAS
STARTED SELLING
TABLETS
The (tele)communications market is always on the move:
each new era brings new developments. The Dutch market
leader in mobile telephony, BelCompany, understands
this like no other. To anticipate demand, BelCompany
has started selling tablets. Analysts believe this growth
market has a lot of potential.
Greater demand
The current market leader by a long mile is Apple
with its iPad, followed by its main competitor Samsung
and the Galaxy Tab (with the Android-OS). In 2011,
HP, Motorola, HTC and Dell are also set to launch
their tablets. According to analysts, there will be an
explosive growth in the tablets and smartphones market, especially in emerging markets. This is widely
expected to be at the expense of the PC market. BelCompany carries all the major brands of smartphones.
The tablets complement this range beautifully,
so the launch is a logical extension of BelCompany’s
strategy.
Low-cut trousers are currently still in fashion, but highwaist fashion is making a comeback, as are wider-legged
trousers.
For fervent supporters of the ‘skinny look’ or the legging,
the ‘Capri trousers’ could be a good compromise this
spring.
Lingerie is also in demand! Colourful, high-quality bra
type tops may be shown off, featuring bra bands or prints,
elegant or more daring neck lines.
Collarless jackets with exaggerated shoulder pads, wide
knit tops featuring diamond-shaped patterns and drop
shoulders or bat-wing sleeves are also still in fashion. Vest
dresses and capes are also in demand.
But what shoes to wear?
For lovers of the high heel, there are plateau pumps
or the more comfortable sleigh heels, also known as
wedges. These are available in all versions; closed or
open nose (peep-toe) in natural colours and materials, as well as in colourful (animal) prints or more
romantic pastel-coloured flowers.
And when the sun tempts us to expose our toes
again, there is an abundance of sandals to choose
from. From plain sandals with one strap to woven
sandals with a variety of straps, buckles, laces,
tassels or colourful decorations.
The masculine shoe in ‘unisex look’ should not be
forgotten. Available in suede, jersey or leather, in 1
or 2 colours with brogues or buckles with a satin
strap or laces.
A seismic shift
Consumer analysts predict that around 54.8 million tablets will be sold in
2011. Research has also
shown that this growth is
set to continue, with more
than 208 million tablets
being sold in 2014. This
success has direct consequences for the sale of other consumer electronics products such as e-readers, netbooks, game consoles, media
players and high-end smartphones.
The tablet as a promotional tool
BelCompany, which to date usually offered subsidized
netbook deals with its broadband service, is also expected to utilize tablet PCs as a new promotional tool. With
this move, BelCompany will put the tablet within the
reach of ordinary consumers.
Men
The all in one suit is a perennial favourite of men, or a
good suit jacket and trousers combination. The slim-cut
suit remains popular. Time to renew your gym membership!
As well as straight cut trousers, there are also wider models featuring pleats or a slightly lower-cut crotch. But
from the knee, the trousers have a tighter line to the
ankle. Gone are the days of the wide-bottomed trousers.
Casual sport and ‘Street’ clothing are an alternative, and
the Cargo pants or Chino trousers are the summer alternative to jeans.
And what about shoes?
If the man in your life does not yet own a pair of brogues,
now is the time to buy his first pair.
For smart suits or suits for more representative occasions,
there are stylish, beautiful leather men’s shoes as well as
macho, simple lace models.
Deck shoes or boat shoes are ideal leisure shoes. Or how
about a delightfully comfortable ‘desert boot’ as a suitable alternative?
The next edition of Macinform will contain more fashion
updates. In the meantime, all that remains is for me to
wish you a joyous spring with an abundance of new shoes
to add to your collection”.
11
EXCLUSIVE IN THE BENELUX
MACINTOSH RETAIL GROUP
OPENS STEVE MADDEN STORES
Macintosh Retail Group recently entered into a licence
agreement with the American shoe giant Steve Madden Ltd.
The cooperation provides an exclusive brand licence and the
framework to open multiple retail locations in the Benelux in
the early spring of 2011.
King of fashionable footwear in the USA
The American designer Steve Madden has been called ‘the
21st century king of fashionable footwear’. And
for good reason. He has an innate ability
to spot what is ‘hot’ and, like no other,
translates his vision into trendy,
much talked-about footwear.
Madden is inspired by rock
and roll and urban edge to
design shoes that are innovative, fun and always
trendy-chic.
The brand has many famous fans, including Kate Moss,
Heidi Klum and Rihanna. In 2008, Steve Madden launched
the label Steve Madden Music, a platform for up-and-coming
musical talent and contemporary artists. Over the years,
Madden has launched the careers of Lady Gaga, Katy Perry,
All American Rejects, Jazmine Sullivan and Neon Trees.
Eric Coorens, COO of Macintosh Retail Group: “I am
delighted with this collaborative venture. It gives us the
opportunity to introduce the American top label to consumers in the Benelux. This enables us, in accordance with our
strategy, to capture a share of the market that is only sporadically served by our current shoe formulas. Furthermore,
the collaboration demonstrates that international top brands
have faith in us and in our approach to footwear.”
In the US, the Steve Madden brand has for years been
hugely popular among teens, second only to Nike. In the last
twelve months alone, Madden has won a string of awards,
including Company of the Year, Brand of the Year and
Seller of the Year. The brand is
renowned for its rapid market launches of shoes, handbags and accessories.
Macintosh Retail Group has acquired
the exclusive licence to use the Steve
Madden brand in the Benelux, alongside a number of other brands carried
by Steve Madden Ltd. The company
plans to open stores in top locations
throughout the Benelux. In the spring
of 2011, 4 stores are set to open. As
part of its marketing strategy, the
company will also have a strong online
presence. For more information about
the Steve Madden label, please visit
www.stevemadden.nl.
Steve Madden designs, sources and markets fashion-forward footwear and accessories
for women, men and children. In addition to marketing products under its own brands
including Steve Madden, Steven by Steve Madden, Madden Girl, Betsey Johnson,
Betseyville and Big Buddha, the Company is the licensee of various brands including
Olsenboye for footwear, handbags and belts, Elizabeth and James, l.e.i. and GLO for
footwear and Daisy Fuentes for handbags. The Company’s wholesale distribution
includes department stores, specialty stores, luxury retailers,
COLOFON:
national chains and mass merEditor:
P.T.A. Hünen
chants. The Company also operPostal address:
Macintosh Retail Group
ates 82 retail stores (including
PO box 110, 6190 AC Maastricht-Airport
the Company’s online store).
Production:
Printing:
The Netherlands
Caris & Sak, Heerlen
Drukkerij Schrijen-Lippertz
Voerendaal/Stein
This Macinform is printed
on FSC certified paper.
12