Coast trials new-look stores to lure customers to standalones

Occasionwear retailer Coast plans to open two new-look stores in Brighton and Cardiff, as part of a design revamp to woo shoppers into its growing number of standalone shops.

Retail director Sian Hession said up to 30 more shops are planned by 2005, if the two are successful.

The emphasis of the redesign is on boosting the appeal of standalone stores, and providing a showcase for new ranges of accessories and clothes.

Sales growth at Coast - owned by Oasis - for the first half is understood to have beaten targets.

The Brighton shop opens on October 3, and Cardiff follows on October 9, bringing the total number of standalones to 12. There are 100 concessions.