Blue Inc. was created more than a century ago. It started with men apparel then the company diversified its offer into women and boys clothes. Blue Inc. has become one of the largest menswear retailer in the UK and runs a network of more than 220 stores. Well, at least until last week: Blue Inc. just closed over 70 locations -mostly Officers Club shops-, cutting 580 jobs. According to The Telegraph, the decision was taken following this winter in-stores sales poor results as well as a willingness to focus on the growing online business, which grew by 50% last year.
Steve Cohen, Chief Executive, explained that "Online is becoming an increasingly big part of the business. Given the strength of online and the changing environment on the high street we decided now was the right time to evaluate the store portfolio. We're investing in areas of growth for the future, as well as continuing to support those parts of the retail estate where Blue Inc. has a strong customer base. The core business and store estate remains profitable."
Finally, fibre2fashion confirmed that Blue Inc. won't close any store in Northern Ireland but instead plans to invest £1 million to open of six new locations and create more than 75 jobs.
Photo: Margareth G.
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