Deliveroo and Ann Summers tie up in virtual storefront push
Deliveroo has unveiled a new virtual store format for retail partners, with Maplin Electronics and Ann Summers announced as the first brands to launch dedicated storefronts on the platform.
Deliveroo has unveiled a new virtual store format for retail partners, with Maplin Electronics and Ann Summers announced as the first brands to launch dedicated storefronts on the platform.
The new visual storefronts, now live in London and Cambridge, will sit within the Deliveroo app and allow brands to offer more personalised, branded shopping journeys.
The rapid delivery giant said products themselves will be fulfilled and delivered through Deliveroo’s rapid grocery and retail network, Deliveroo HOP.
Maplin and Ann Summers had already been available via Deliveroo HOP, but this new partnership enables both brands to expand their offering. Maplin will offer a broader selection of tech essentials including smart home products, chargers and digital cameras, while Ann Summers is introducing more items from its Self Love range.
Deliveroo said the virtual storefronts will give retail partners greater flexibility to tailor their product offering, increase their discoverability, and provide a brand-led shopping experience. The service also enables retailers without physical stores in certain areas to reach new customers through Deliveroo’s delivery-only HOP network.
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Deliveroo VP of new verticals Suzy McClintock said: “We’re delighted to bring virtual storefronts to Deliveroo HOP, a huge step forward in elevating the way retailers can engage with customers through the app. Our virtual storefronts offer retailers a personalised digital extension to their physical stores or existing online channels, meaning customers receive a bespoke experience and continue to benefit from our rapid delivery times.
“Virtual storefronts are our latest retail innovation as we continue to expand our offer in this area, with more selection and an enhanced experience for brands and consumers alike.”
Maplin Electronics managing director Ollie Marshall added: “Since the closure of Maplin Electronic’s high street stores, we’ve been committed to reimagining how we serve our customers, especially in those urgent ‘need it now’ moments, whether it’s replacing a charger, fixing a cable issue, or grabbing a last minute tech essential.
“Our goal is to be the most convenient electronics brand in the UK, and launching a Maplin Electronic storefront powered by Deliveroo Hop is a major milestone in delivering on that promise.
“We’ve put our best selling tech just minutes away from our customers’ doorsteps, all at the great value and competitive prices people expect from us. This is a natural step in our broader strategy to be wherever our customers need us — online, mobile, and now, on demand.”
A spokesperson for Ann Summers said: “Launching our virtual storefront on Deliveroo Hop is an exciting step in making Ann Summers even more accessible and responsive to our customers’ needs. This collaboration marks a bold and exciting step forward for the accessibility of sexual pleasure in today’s climate. We are proud to deliver convenience, confidence, and empowerment directly to our customer, faster than ever before.”
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