Poundland has major fashion firms in its sights

0 The discount chain aims to become as big a volume clothing retailer as the likes of River Island Poundland is to accelerate the rollout of Pep&co fashion outlets within its existing stores as the retailer ramps up competition with rival Primark.

The expansion drive, part of its aim to become a “major high street fashion player”, will see it open 91 Pep&co stores by June, putting it on course to have a total of 330 by the middle of the year.

Poundland said the move would help elevate it to a “top 15” clothing retailer by volume alongside the likes of River Island, Top Man, Asos and Peacocks if expected sales were reached.

Prices at Pep&co’s 200-plus stores in the UK start at £1 and 95 per cent of the range is £10 or under, rivalling Primark on price.

Poundland’s UK & Ireland managing director Barry Williams said: “We’re working flat out to make sure as many Poundland shoppers have access to Pep&co by this summer. Pep&co gives shoppers a major new reason to shop in our stores. [We] know is a hit with our customers.”