Spring 2008

House of Fraser has appointed iForce to handle fulfilment for its first UK transactional web site, which it is hailing as a significant development in the online retail sector.

Its new online service offers internet shoppers hundreds of brands and over 15,000 products in sectors that include menswear, womenwear, fashion accessories, homeware, beauty and food gifts.

iForce is initially handling fulfilment from its East Molesey multi-user centre in Surrey, but the contractor points out that one of its selling points is its ability to scale its operations and its expertise. It says its involvement will facilitate 'rapid growth anticipated' for House of Fraser's online business.

iForce has handled electrical returns for all of House of Fraser's retail stores since July 2004. Last year the relationship developed further when iForce started handling House of Fraser's hampers and gifts fulfilment operation at its fulfilment centre in East Molesey.

House of Fraser's commercial director, Colin Porter, says factors prompting it to choose iForce included the company's depth of experience and understanding of the importance of the customer experience.

iForce also provides fulfilment, reverse logistics or direct marketing services for John Lewis Direct, Boots.com, Great Little Trading Company Tesco, Green King and Bentley.