Harvey Nichols is to trial selling fashion online later this year. The luxury retailer, which this year expects profits to fall 40 per cent, will develop its online presence as a support function to its stores by offering commoditised fashion and accessories.
Harvey Nichols chief executive Joseph Wan told Retail Week the plan to develop the site was not an about-face on online strategy. Wan has in the past been cautious about selling luxury goods online, stating the platform does not work for items sold at the high-end price spectrum.
Wan sated the types of products that will be sold online include items such as denim and shirts. He plans to broaden the offer each year after a review of each season’s performance.
The upcoming season will see Harvey Nichols increase its young fashion offer, targeting a more recession proof consumers with increased levels of disposable income. The London Knightsbridge flagship will see its fourth floor converted to offer mainstream brands from August and re-open early 2010.