Bennetts bounces back with online sales and delivery
THE firm that rose from the ashes of what was once one of Ashbourne’s favourite high street stores has invested in a fleet of vehicles to keep its customers stocked with its products.
Bennetts of Derby, the brand rescued from the collapse of the department store chain, has added to an online ordering system that was established by Paul Hurst, who bought the firm’s fixed assets and goodwill in October 2019.
He launched the online presence in the autumn and he aims to ensure its centuries-old reputation remains intact by purchasing its own fleet of delivery vehicles.
Sales of family gifts, home and garden accessories, food and drink have “soared” since the website was launched and the hope is an in-house delivery system can help ensure parcels are “delivered with care.”
Mr Hurst says he and his team are working to secure premises in Derby’s Cathedral Quarter so the Bennetts store can return to the city.
“Bennetts has always been synonymous with great products, competitive prices and enviable customer service since it opened in Derby in 1734 and we are adamant this should be emulated online.
“We therefore carefully chose the best brands at comparable prices.
“Customer service has included ensuring all enquiries are answered personally and that all stock advertised is available in the Derby warehouse so we can hand pack immediately for next-day delivery.
“The one area of the business that we did not have control of was delivery.
“We recently found 1970s drawings in the archives of the Bennetts delivery van livery. This set the wheels in motion for our latest fleet of delivery vehicles.
“Having our own vehicles gives us complete control and flexibility as well as ensuring that all parcels are delivered with the care and attention they received when being picked and packed in our warehouse.
“As the online offering has grown, we were surprised to find two areas that have proved incredibly popular are London and Scotland.
“So much so, that we now have one vehicle designated to national deliveries and one serving our loyal local customers.”
The vehicles are also among the greenest on the roads. Mr Hurst said that he remained “extremely confident” that Bennetts would return in a new 21st-century guise.
He said: “Our plan was always to maintain the Bennetts brand online alongside working to secure the right premises for the physical store.
“To find out more, visit www. bennettsofderby.co.uk