Scott goes online with consumers in tandem with dealer stockists
Scott Bicycles has announced that it will replicate its German market strategy in the UK, opening up a direct-consumer sales channel that will be driven alongside its stockists via the Scott Network Program.
In a press statement issued today, the firm outlined that consumers are now able to order at scott-sports.com, choosing either home delivery or a local pick up.
Speaking to CI.N this morning UK MD Dave Rainsford said: “Stores have been kept well informed and have been involved for the past six months in this transition. The way consumers are shopping is changing, but our platform remains considerate to the dealers and favourable to stores.”
The statement reads:
After having launched its E-Commerce platform initially in the German market back in April 2017, Scott will now offer their end consumers the opportunity to buy products online in the United Kingdom, which started on November 24th. The opportunity of buying Scott products on scott-sports.com will be extended to more and more markets in the coming years. With this strategic move, Scott Sports lays down foundations for a successful future and connects E-Commerce and modern distribution in close partnership with its dealers through the Scott Network Program.
Home delivery or local Pick-Up at a Scott store – customers can choose where products will be sent. Digital technology is an integral part of modern business as an increasing number of customers are buying online. Many industries have incorporated digital channels in their business models. Scott has developed its own E-Commerce platform to provide customers with an additional channel, which will allow them a 24/7 buying opportunity and the largest range of Scott products available.
“This will work in tandem with our existing trading network”, says Norbu Chopathar, Head of E-Commerce at Scott Sports. “Within the Scott Network Program, Scott dealers will be playing a central role in the successful deployment of this new channel. Numerous contact points and a business model covering all channels are the key to success and continued growth for everyone concerned in our industry. Together we want to provide new digital contact points for our dealers. In this way, we can offer our customers the possibility to combine the advantages of online purchasing with the strengths of a local outlet such as proximity, consultation and expert service”, Chopathar continues.
“With E-Commerce, a wide product range and 24/7 availability meets proximity, consultation, and expert service on site. For dealers taking part in the Scott Network program, Scott Sports offers a B2B online shop with possible direct deliveries to the consumers. Alternatively, clients can choose “pick-up” stores nearby. Products ordered online such as bicycles, skis etc. have to be picked-up at local dealers; this way Scott can ensure a high quality level of product delivery and service. One key pillar of Scott’s B2C strategy is to make sure that Scott network partners will benefit from all online transactions. We at Scott believe that an intense collaboration with our existing and growing dealer network will be key for success as we are dealing with products which require a high-level of expert advice and service”, Chopathar concludes.
