Prospering Clogau to open five more shops
CLOGAU Gold is set to open another five shops.
The Bodelwyddan-based business says the pandemic has failed to halt its “incredible” sales growth.
At a time when retail is under pressure, as coronavirus accelerates the switch to online shopping, Clogau says it is bucking the trend.
It had already opened shops in Carmarthen, Bangor, Swansea and Llandudno in the months prior to the lockdown and is ready to expand again with plans for shops in Chester, Wrexham, Ruthin and two more premises in south Wales.
It revealed turnover is almost 20% up on last year. The business has also raised £200,000 for NHS charities via customers’ donations, a raffle and demand for its exclusive new NHS pin badge.
Ben Roberts, Clogau managing director, cited the influence of celebrities including TV star Gemma Collins, Love Island’s Dr Alex George and Real Housewives of Cheshire regulars Lauren Simon and Tanya Bardsley as having a big impact on the campaign.
He thanked the public and customers for their support during what has been a challenging period for all sectors.
“It has been a difficult time, but the team has really come together and done a brilliant job, especially in producing so many of the pin badges,” said Mr Roberts.
“All profits will go directly to NHS charities, which is amazing; we had hoped to raise £25,000 so to pass the £200,000 mark is incredible.”
Mr Roberts is confident the new shops will be able to flourish under the ‘new normal’ moving forward.
“We have looked at the business, how we can adapt and be more efficient, and are focused on the longterm future of Clogau,” he said.
“During the pandemic we have maintained strong sales and are 20% ahead of last year, our model of opening new stores has been wellreceived and online we have continued to perform strongly.
“Our existing sites are trading at the same level as 2019, which reflects the safety measures we have in place enable people to shop freely and with confidence.”
Mr Roberts added: “We worked throughout past months to produce the NHS badges and to meet demand, we have never seen volume like it before.
“Clogau will continue to grow, but our top priority is the health and wellbeing of our staff and customers as we begin to emerge from the most uncertain period in modern history.”