Budget Sport store to start online business
Intersport Finland Ltd launches the Budget Sport online store today. The Budget Sport online store will compete on the sports equipment market with high-quality products, diversified selection and low prices. Online business will complement the three-year-old chain of Budget Sport stores, turning it into a nationwide network.
"There has been a clear demand in the market for a diversified sports online store that provides reliable and safe shopping for customers. Our objective is to respond to the increasing price competition and online business in the sector by building an online store for price-conscious consumers who value easy purchasing and are interested in outdoor activities," says Juha Nurminen, President of Intersport Finland Ltd.
"Consumers' willingness to shop online has grown fast in recent years and by offering online services we also reach those customers who live far away from regular stores. An online store provides customers comparing and selecting products with support in their purchasing process and so complements a regular store," Nurminen continues.
The selection of the Budget Sport online store changes by season and is based on the supply of a regular store. The products highlighted in the spring opening include bicycles and cycling equipment, camping, golf and other ball games as well as running and fitness equipment.
"Despite the economic situation, physical exercise and focus on wellbeing is the trend of today. The outlook for spring in sports retailing is favourable. We expect a lot from the bicycle and running shoe sales, in particular," says Nurminen.
Budget Sport's efficient logistics and warehousing, limited selection and self-service ensure low prices to customers. All purchases also accrue K-Plussa points.
Finland has been the pilot country for the Budget Sport concept. The first store of the chain, which belongs to Intersport Finland, was opened in Tammisto, Vantaa in April 2006.
"There has been a demand for a new type of price-driven sports store. We have opened five stores in various parts of Finland during these three years."
The fifth store of the chain was opened in Oulu this spring. There are also Budget Sport stores at Ideapark in Lempäälä, in Espoo and Raisio. Intersport International intends to launch the Budget Sport store chain in different parts of Europe in the next few years.
Further information:
President Juha Nurminen, Intersport Finland Ltd, tel. +358 1053 40950 or +358 50 525 3847
www.budgetsport.fi
Kesko (www.kesko.fi) is a retail specialist whose stores offer quality to the daily lives of consumers. Kesko has about 2,000 stores engaged in chain operations inthe Nordic and Baltic countries, Russia, and Belarus.
