A popular books and crafts store has stopped trading online. The Works, known for its affordable prices, is set to focus on its physical stores. The shop says it has switched its website to a “non-transactional” site. More than 90% of its sales were completed at its physical stores, with plans to open 100 more.
The store said it had operational challenges which impacted the group’s online performance in the past couple of years. As a result of this, the challenges began to outweigh the progress the online store made. The Works has around 500 UK stores, its website will now allow customers to see what is available in store, although they will not be able to purchase items online.
In an update to investors, it said: “Given these issues, the channel’s relatively small and reducing revenue contribution and loss-making performance, the board assessed a wide range of options and has determined that the channel is no longer sustainable, with the optimal solution being to move to a non-transactional website.”
The change will enable the store to simplify its operating model, reports This is Money.
It added: “The store estate offers significant growth potential, with ongoing like-for-like (LFL) sales growth and scope to expand the Group’s footprint by a further 100 locations. A net 5 new stores are set to open in FY26, with a further 10 planned for FY27.”
On its website, a banner at the top of the page now reads: “We’re now an in-store only retailer. Find everything you love in one of our 500 stores.”
The group expects exceptional closure costs of around £2 million.
The transition is anticipated to have a small negative impact on the group’s cash position this year.
The Works said it remained on track for its medium-term target of at least £22.5million in 2030, and now expects to reach it with lower sales than the original £375 million goal.
Gavin Peck, chief executive of The Works, said: “We have reached this decision after a thorough assessment of the options available and are confident that focussing on our successful bricks-and-mortar business is the right step to reduce risk, improve operational clarity and support long-term profitable growth.
“A website that enables customers to browse our products and seek inspiration will help to bring our brand to life and drive customers to our 500 stores.”
The Works shares lifted by 13.8 per cent on Friday morning.
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