Organic Growth at The Original Factory Shop: GCSE Business in the News

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What's the story?

The Original Factory Shop, a British discount variety retailer, has opened its 200th store this year, marking a period of rapid organic growth for the company.

After entering a restructuring plan in 2018, which reduced its store count to 170, The Original Factory Shop has rebounded impressively to reach 200 stores by the end of 2023. This expansion is highlighted by adding 25 new stores just this year alone, with plans to continue growing its physical retail presence on high streets nationwide in 2024.

Much of this organic growth can be attributed to the company's strategic move to take over prime retail sites formerly held by the now-defunct M&Co chain, which recently fell into administration. By seizing the opportunity from the demise of its competitor, The Original Factory Shop fuelled its own expansion. Its growth has further created 200 new job opportunities in local communities - a fact the company seems keen to promote.

According to MD Phil Briggs, growth is a key objective of the business, and hitting the 200-store milestone demonstrates the underlying health of the business and the connection to its customer base. Propelled by this growth, Briggs hints at more expansion plans as The Original Factory Shop cements itself as a value variety retail chain composed of clothing, homeware, FMCG and beauty brands - all conveniently under one roof.

The Original Factory Shop opens its 200th store