Online footwear retailer Shooii is preparing to redefine e-service levels in Australia with the launch of a global standard website and a firm focus on the local market.
The new web platform, which is currently being developed by Brisbane digital agency Joseph Mark, is set to launch by February 2012 and will offer big name brands at discount prices, free shipping and returns, customer support through ‘Live Chat’ and video reviews for every product, along with a range of other features.
Shooii founder Dave Prince, who previously worked for Footlocker, said the site will address, “the growing consumer appetite for ‘global standard’ online footwear retail in Australia” and will also see new product drops every week to keep consumers engaged.
“Australia is our focus over the next three years. We will get it right here first and then look to expand to other markets. We will have around 900-1,000 styles to choose from in our first year and this number will grow to over 3,000 models by the end of year three,” he said.
“We have lagged behind the US and UK for too long and we are now paying the price as an industry. Aussie consumers want to shop online locally but have limited choices, ‘clunky’ sites in which to navigate and they are also fed up with poor service. Our goal is to become the largest online retailer of footwear in Australia and raise the bar in terms of customer experience and service levels.”
Price points will range from $49.95 right through to $300 and Prince said the site will consistently offer a five to 15 per cent reduction on well-known labels.
Prince has also recruited some skilled players to ensure the success of the business, including former Myer director of logistics Prakash Menon, who was recently appointed to the Shooii board for his expertise in retail and logistics. Menon joins Ed st John (former CEO of Warner Music) and chairman Graham Cook (ex CEO of IOOF and E*TRADE ).
Daniela Aroche