Comet opens product interactive-style shops

Comet, the UK’s second biggest electrical retailer, is rolling out a new format of “interactive” superstores in an effort to regain market-leadership.

The Kingfisher-owned chain, which lost the number one spot to Dixons-owned Currys in the early Nineties, has opened the first of up to 50 new-look outlets, which encourage customers to test products before buying.

The first of the new stores, which have yellow and black fascias, opened in Paisley, Scotland, at the end of June with the second to open in Reading, Berkshire, next month.

Products, such as camcorders, will be chained to display stands for customers to test instead of being locked away in glass-fronted cabinets. Staff are also trained to give demonstrations.

The new stores offer up to 4,000 products, 20 per cent more than in standard Comet outlets. A range of up to 9,000 music CDs which can be listened to in special listening booths will also be available.

Comet managing director Joe Riordan says: “Being able to play with the products before buying makes customers feel more at ease when they make their purchase at Comet.”

The retailer is also testing a new slogan on its shop fascias – “Always the lowest prices” – in its 28 stores in Scotland.