The Works has announced an immediate shutdown of its ecommerce operations as part of a wider shift toward a streamlined, store‑led operating model, according to reporting by Retail Gazette.
The decision marks a significant pivot for the value-focused books, crafts and stationery retailer. Fitting with its vow to be “the favourite destination for affordable, screen-free activities for the whole family”, the company will instead reposition its website as a non‑transactional hub designed to showcase products and direct customers into its nationwide store estate.
Despite entering ecommerce in 2012, more than 90% of sales have historically come from The Works’ physical stores – of which it has more than 500 across the UK and Ireland – with digital retailing remaining a marginal contributor despite over a decade of investment.
“A strategic step”
Chief executive Gavin Peck said the withdrawal from online selling is a strategic step designed to simplify The Works’ structure and concentrate effort where the retailer performs best. “We are confident that focusing on our successful bricks-and-mortar business is the right step to reduce risk, improve operational clarity and support long-term profitable growth,” he said, as reported by Retail Gazette.
The company anticipates around £2m in exceptional costs tied to the transition, alongside a modest short‑term cash impact that should normalise by the end of FY27. Beyond that, the restructuring is forecast to be cash‑flow positive.
Expanding physical presence
The shift comes at a time of solid in‑store momentum. Like‑for‑like store sales are currently 3.3% ahead of last year, reflecting stable footfall and strong demand for the retailer’s value‑focused assortment. The Works plans to expand its physical presence further, aiming for a net five new openings in FY26 and 10 more in FY27.
The strategy aligns with the company’s overarching ambition to reinforce its position as a destination for affordable, screen‑free leisure activities. “Providing great value to customers always has, and always will be, central to our proposition,” chief operation officer Lynne Tooms said in the company’s corporate statement. “Operating in an inflationary environment can be challenging and means we’ve got to make smart decisions.”
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